The Practice and Evaluation of Applying PBL to e-Learning via Screencasting

As the practice of e-learning continues to proliferate, online educators, especially in the computing disciplines, are facing special challenges. This chapter represents an effort in moving the existing problem-based learning (PBL) paradigm to e-learning through the use of screencasts. In the form of an empirical case study, the chapter provides empirical evidence and indicative support for the successful application and evaluation of PBL methods in a highly technical computing course that has traditionally been taught in a face-to-face setting. This chapter makes a unique contribution to the e-learning research with respect to the applicability of PBL methods in the online environment and the exciting possibilities for screencasting as an instructional technology. It also offers implications for creating e-learning courses that can prepare students to develop lifelong problem solving skills and become more motivated and responsible learners in today’s networked society.