Using Electronic Resources to Support Problem-Based Learning

Abstract

Students acquire skills in problem solving and critical thinking through the process as well as team work on problem-based learning courses. Many courses have started to involve the online learning environment and integrate these courses with electronic resources. Teachers use electronic resources in their classes. To overcome the problem of the limited teaching resources, electronic resources can help students to engage in self-learning more easily. This study addresses electronic resources usage in problem-based learning. Therefore, the aim of this article is to investigate the relationship between the capability to use electronic resources and problem-based learning performance. A quantitative analysis was conducted through the structural equation modeling approach in order to indicate the direction and relationship between these constructs. To conclude, this study suggests that tutor support, peer participation, and internet search capability should be conceptualized as forming part of an important learning context. Further, the results indicate that both peer participation and internet search capability are required to facilitate the development of problem-solving skills.