Advanced Certificate in Problem-Based Learning for Critical Thinking in Online Education
Published on June 28, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today we're talking with Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in online education and the lead instructor for the new course "Advanced Certificate in Problem-Based Learning for Critical Thinking in Online Education." Dr. Smith, can you tell us a bit about your personal experiences with Problem-Based Learning or PBL? GUEST: Sure, I've seen firsthand how PBL can transform online learning. It shifts the focus from passive consumption to active exploration, making lessons more engaging and memorable for students. HOST: That's fascinating. And as a leader in this field, what current industry trends are you seeing when it comes to PBL and critical thinking in online education? GUEST: There's a growing recognition that traditional lecture-based online courses don't always meet the needs of 21st-century learners. Employers want employees who can solve complex problems and think critically. As a result, many institutions are turning to PBL to foster those skills. HOST: Indeed, that's a much-needed shift. Now, every innovative approach has its challenges. What do you find most challenging about implementing PBL in an online setting? GUEST: The main challenge is ensuring effective collaboration and communication among students when they're not physically present. But with the right tools and strategies, it's definitely achievable. HOST: Absolutely, it's all about adapting to the digital landscape. Finally, where do you see the future of PBL and critical thinking in online education going? GUEST: I believe PBL will become a cornerstone of online education, and we'll see more sophisticated tools and techniques emerging to support it. Our goal is to prepare educators to lead this change. HOST: Well, Dr. Smith, thank you for sharing your insights and giving us a sneak peek into the new course. We're excited to see how this will advance online education! GUEST: Thank you! It's been a pleasure discussing this important topic with you.
