Effect of Problem Based Learning (PBL) on Library Usage: a Study at Faculty of Health-Care Sciences, Eastern University of Sri Lanka

Abstract

Researches show that the use of library in academic institutions is decreasing due to various reasons. One of the reasons for such decrease is that the less motivation towards further reading by traditional lecture based teaching and learning. This type of teaching-learning methods entirely drives away the selfmotivated learning. Whenever the students are encouraged for the self-directed learning, the usage of library will increase and in turn, it paves the way for students to gain broader knowledge on a particular subject. In this context, Problem Based Learning (PBL) is such an approach, which encourages the selfmotivated learning. PBL is a student driven process, through which the students set the pace thus the role of the teacher becomes one of the guide, facilitator and resource person. Most of the medical schools all over the world nowadays shifted their teaching learning program to PBL. The Faculty of Health-Care Sciences (FHCS) of Eastern University of Sri Lanka (EUSL) has also adopted the PBL approach. The present study investigated how the PBL have an impact on the use of library of Faculty of Health-Care Sciences. The library usage of students was recorded during PBL sessions and other academic sessions. The data obtained were analysed statistically using chi-squared test and student-t test. The results reveal that there is an association (p<0.05) between PBL session and increase in library usage and library usage significantly differs (p <0.05) between PBL session and other academic session. Further, results indicate that library usage has been increased significantly during the PBL session than other academic session.

Impact of Problem-based Learning in Developing Logical and Analytical Skills of Undergraduates

“…Considering research done on PBL in global level, Zareeha (2013) pointed out that in non-PBL approach, students involve in the process of listening, writing and giving direct single answers whereas PBL develops students' problem solving abilities. Santharooban & Sathaananthan (2013), through a research done at the Eastern University of Sri Lanka, revealed that library usage of the undergraduates can be increased using PBL. Fernando & Kumanayake (2014), researching on outcome based education through PBL, pointed out that PBL can enhance students' abilities in critical thinking, analysis and problem solving in practical scenarios.…”