Problem-based learning (PBL) in engineering education in Sri Lanka: A moodle based approach

Abstract

This paper describes how a Moodle-based PBL educational model was integrated into the first year of a Bachelor of Engineering course in Civil Engineering at the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka. To determine the perceptions of students regarding a PBL application prepared in a Moodle environment, a survey questionnaire was prepared. Students’ submission rates and students’ discussions were monitored through Moodle log records. Learner’s feedback on PBL activities, experience in Moodle, perspective on group discussion and its effectiveness were collected through the structured questionnaire and group interviews. Designing an online PBL environment in Moodle helps to popularize the Learning Management System (LMS) among teachers and students engaged in engineering and it will contribute an online PBL model to develop Moodle Web and Moodle Mobile support for PBL.