The EUCLIDES Enhancing the Use of Cooperative Learning to Increase DEvelopment of Science Studies Project – An On-Line Learning Portal Utilizing Problem-Based Learning

Abstract

This paper presents the EUCLIDES (Enhancing theUse ofCooperativeLearning toIncreaseDEvelopment of Science studies) project (134246-LLP-1-2007-1-IT-1-COMENIUS-CMP), which aims at introducing and pilot testing an innovative teaching and training methodology, based on the Constructivist approach and on Problem-Based Learning (PBL), through the use of ICT instruments. This methodology has been developed for the study of science subjects and, is currently being used in some European schools of secondary education, involving teachers and students. A Moodle platform has been developed to enforce the application and use of the methodology. Through this platform, teachers can monitor the progress of the work of the students and intervene when necessary as facilitators to provide further co-ordination, pose questions and suggest problem-based approaches. The use of the platform secures that the teacher remains distant from the students allowing students to work by themselves and find solutions to the problems posed.