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Introduction
Problem based learning (PBL) is a non-traditional teaching method that encourages collaboration and higher-level critical thinking skills on part of the learner and the instructor. The following discussion focuses on the mathematical needs of all developmental mathematics students, in particular those students who are pursing a path in allied health and who require basic mathematics skills to function as a practicing professional. In contrast to the traditional instructional paradigm, whereby teachers lecture and students listen, PBL offers a better method that incorporates class discussion groups, and promotes independent and team learning skills.
The Problem
Dale Parnell, former president of the Association of Community Colleges, estimated that "more than 23 million individuals in the United States cannot read, write or compute at the functional level and many of the students turn to the community college for help." And, in fact, between 60 and 75 percent of entering community college freshmen need remediation in mathematics in order to succeed in a college environment. (Cox, 1993) Unfortunately, the failure rate in such courses is alarming and unacceptable. According to one study of students enrolled in developmental mathematics courses, fewer than half are able to pass the course on their first attempt. (Hackett, 1985).
Many students have the aptitude necessary to successfully complete the health curriculum of their choice and make fine practitioners. However, these health careers require substantial training with a strong mathematics and science background, and many programs are finding it increasingly difficult to attract people because of their fear of mathematics. For example, students in the imaging and radiation therapy professions are required to have a strong understanding of mathematics in order to apply ionizing radiation to patients and to administer contrast media and radiopharmaceuticals. Mathematics skills are also vital in radiation protection calculations, such as the inverse square law, density histograms and radiation dose response curves.
To prepare students, instructors from applied fields need to work with mathematics instructors to develop an approach that provides a common goal by addressing the students' needs with an appreciation for the employers' demands. This approach, called problem-based learning (PBL), is an instructional method that incorporates class discussion groups, and promotes independent and team learning skills.
With jobs in the allied health professions expected to steadily increase over...