Collaborative Project–based Learning and Problem–based Learning in Higher Education: a Consideration of Tutor and Student Roles in Learner-focused Strategies

The aim of this chapter is twofold. Firstly to support academic staff from a variety of subject disciplines in higher education in the clarification between two different learner focused strategies, namely collaborative project-based (CPBL) and problem-based learning (PBL). Secondly, to provide practical advice to them to assist in the making of informed decisions as to when which strategy is most appropriate to use to support learning. These decisions will be based on a sound understanding of each strategy and a consideration of when each is most appropriate to use in enhancing the learning of their students. Section One explores what is meant by group learning. Students have knowledge, views and experiences to share that are valuable and worthy of consideration. Opening up our classes to the voices of our students is sending a very powerful message to them as it is through dialogue with others, articulation of viewpoints and identification of concerns that students are enabled to make sense of new information. Definitions of the two learner-focused strategies will be provided in specific contexts within higher education. Collaborative project-based Learning will consider the learning afforded by the involvement of students in a collaborative group project. Problem-based learning will explore the importance of placing students in control of their own learning. Section Two details each strategy under the key headings: the role of tutor and students.