Tutors and students' views on problem based learning: Sample of Dokuz Eylül University

This study?s main purpose is to present the tutors?and student?s views of problem based learning (PBL) being implemented in Dokuz Eylül University?s Law, Theology, Engineering and Arts and Sciences Faculties.The study was carried out with the data obtained between 2008 and 2010 from the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th year students of Engineering and Arts and Sciences Faculties and 3rd and 4th year students of Law and Theology Faculties and the tutors of these faculties.In this study a mixed method design; composed of both qualitative and quantative research designs was adopted. The data utilized in this study derive from semi-structured interviews and questionnaires developed fort he students asnd tutors by the researcher. Quantitative and qualitative data was combined at the analysis stage.The results of the study revealed that the students and tutors were informed about the PBL before the implementation of the approach, however especially students need a longer information period with opportunities to practice. Majority of the students and the tutors think that PBL helps students acquire the skills to search, relate subjects to one and other, solve problems, work in a team and use information sources completely. According to the findings, majority of the students and teachers think that with PBL students have obtained the skills to share their opinions in a group, making presentation in a group, defending their ideas in a debate and listening to another person?s ideas. Majority of the students and tutors think that students acquire only a medium level of problem solving skills for the problems they will encounter in work life and for the knowledge to make scientific research.Majority of the students and tutors think that modules are partially interesting and they contain information which is partly accurate and current. PBL sessions are considered as partly adequte to meet the learning objectives. Findings indicate that some students and tutors are having difficulties in understanding the main principles of PBL, they encounter with some application problems during the PBL sessions and assesment,process has some deficiencies including the lack of practice of alternative assessment methods.At the end of the research report within the context of these findings, some suggestions are given for the programme and further research.KEYWORDSProblem Based Learning, Constructivism, Views, DEU