Problem-Based Learning Course as Part of Improvement in Teaching

Authors

• Markus Kari

Keywords:

education, legal training, learning, problem-based learning, PBL, legal history

Abstract

The article presents how task-oriented learning and problem-based learning were applied in the course of legal history at the University of Helsinki, and the lessons learned therefrom. As opposed to the traditional mass lectures, the students prepared a research essay based on an introductory lecture and suggested literature. A shared evaluating session and a feed-back lecture further contributed to the assimilation of information learned in the different stages of the course. The course was based on the ideas of progressive inquiry, an interview study of the law students and a vision of the university as a research based teaching institution. Based on the divided student feedback, suggestions for the improvement of
the course are presented.