Guidelines for Problem-Based Learning Interactions

Pointers provided by Diana Roth, Lanphier High School, Springfield, IL

General Principles:

• EVERYONE IS EXPECTED TO CONTRIBUTE EQUALLY TO THE SOLUTION OF THE PROBLEM
• EVERYONE IS EXPECTED TO WORK DILIGENTLY DURING TIME GIVEN IN CLASS.
• STUDENT SHOULD AVOID WORKING ENTIRELY ALONE ONLY TO THROW THINGS TOGETHER AT THE END.

Class Participation Rules

1. Every student will contribute to the discussion.
2. Every student will be non-judgmental of other student's opinions. Listen to others' opinions. Let others finish talking before sharing your opinion or raising a question.
3. Every student will have the opportunity to express his or her ideas without their ideas being attacked. Do not laugh at or attack other people's comments.
4. Every student will ask questions when an idea or fact is presented that they do not understand.
5. Remember that the teacher is primarily a facilitator and not an information giver.

Group Participation Rules

1. Each member of the group will contribute to the project. Be willing to share your ideas, facts, and learning issues with the class and your group.
2. Each member of the group will talk to and interact only with his/her group.
3. Each group member will be present and ready to work. Come to class prepared to participate in discussion and activities.
4. Each group member will do the research or work assigned to him/her. Be sure to find the information you have volunteered to find. Bring all materials and research information needed as agreed upon or assigned.
5. Each group member will be present for group presentations or their grade will be lowered. If the absent group member does not wish to have their grade lowered, (s)he can come in on their own time and deliver an oral presentation by him/herself.

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