Problem-Based Learning in Web Environments: How Do Students Learn? Evidences from the 'Virtual EBMS' System

Abstract

This paper presents a case study of applying the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach in a web-based environment. It first describes the rationale and the main features behind the PBL for creating business leaders in the emerging competitive environment. Then, it introduces a web-based system, supporting the PBL strategy, called 'Virtual eBMS', which is designed and implemented at the e-Business Management Section (eBMS) of Scuola Superiore ISUFI, University of Salento, Italy. The system is illustrated starting from the description of an operational framework for designing PBL curricula from the author perspective and, then, a typical scenario of a learner accessing to the curricula. The learner access is referred to the following main ways: structured and unstructured one, allowing him to capture the most suitable learning resource for solving the complex problem. Finally, the main benefits of the 'Virtual eBMS' functionalities will be summarised from the learner perspective.

Keywords: problem-based learning, PBL, business leaders, unstructured learning, cross-disciplinary learning, action-based learning, experiential learning, just-in-time learning, JIT learning, web-based environments, web-based learning, online learning, e-learning, virtual learning, e-business

JEL Classification: I2