Incorporating Problem-Based Learning in Physical Education Teacher Education

Overview & Synopsis

Problem-based learning (PBL) is an educational method that identifies a problem as a context for student learning. Critical-thinking skills, deductive reasoning, knowledge, and behaviors are developed as students learn how theory can be applied to practical settings. Problem-based learning encourages self-direction, lifelong learning, and sharing knowledge within a group. Although the PBL approach has been implemented in a variety of other educational domains, there is limited discussion about PBL pedagogical approaches in physical education teacher education programs. This article highlights the basics of a PBL approach for educating future teachers and shows how it can be incorporated into existing physical education teacher education programs. (Contains 2 figures.)