Studying psychology at degree level: Would problem-based learning enhance students' experiences?

ABSTRACT

Problem-based learning is increasingly used in medical and paramedical education, both in physical and psychological science course components. Several studies confirm its value in helping students specifically to learn about applied issues such as the psychological aspects of illness and treatment. However, its relevance to the academic study of psychology at degree level has been largely unexplored. This article outlines some possible disadvantages of traditional approaches to undergraduate psychology teaching. The rationale of problem-based learning is described. Examples are given of how psychology is studied by occupational therapy students in a problem-based learning curriculum at Brunel University College, and suggestions are made for extrapolating such approaches to undergraduate psychology. Taking one ‘problem˚s as an example, comparison is made between the topics explored by different student groups, revealing the rich potential of the approach. Some evaluation is offered of the strengths and difficulties of this method of learning.