STEM PBL Challenges
STEM PBL (Problem-Based Learning)

Problem Based Learning (PBL) is an educational method that engages students in inquiry based "real world" problem solving. It has been used extensively in medical education since the early 1970s. While already adopted in other fields including business, law and education, it is only beginning to emerge in engineering and technology education as an alternative to the traditional lecture-based approach. The project's goal is to create teaching materials using this student-centered problem-solving method to teach photonics and optics. For further information and additional photonics instructional materials, contact Fenna Hanes.

A video illustrating the use of the PHOTON PBL Challenges is available on YouTube.

Challenges

• FloDesign - Students need to design a new way to extract electrical energy from a wind turbine
• Johnson and Johnson - In this PBL Challenge, you will be part of team developing a new treatment for eczema using active naturals.
• RSL Fiber Systems is designing an ergonomic and energy efficient lighting system for submarines
• SPG Solar/City of Tucson - The city of Tucson, AZ wants SPG Solar to put a solar array on a large building but the roof is not strong enough to support a traditional panel array.
• Cape Cod Cranberry Growers Association - Can technology be used to make a cranberry bog more energy efficient?
• TTF Watershed Partnership - Can the problem of urban stormwater be addressed by local communities without investing in huge infrastructure projects?