Training students to solve ill-structured problems in an online learning environment

Abstract

Problem-based learning (PBL) is a pedagogical approach in which students learn about subject content matter in the context of solving a variety of different types of problems. David Jonassen in his design theory examines a typology of different kinds of problems that range from being well-structured to ill-structured. In this paper, we look at a research study on how students can be trained in the skills of digital information search literacy to be able to successfully solve ill-structured problems. Ill-structured problems are complex, multi-faceted and require deeper cognitive processing skills to be deconstructed and tackled. Given the pervasiveness of the internet in schools as a repository of easily accessible electronic information, a training intervention framework based upon inquiry-oriented digital information search skills was proposed and evaluated in this study to inform educators on methodically training their students to become effective ill-structured problem solvers.