Changing student learning focus in natural resource management education - Problems (and some solutions) with using problem based learning

To produce competent students who can support the rapid changes occurring in natural resource management you need to get them to do more than listen: students must read, write, discuss, analyse, synthesise, evaluate, solve problems and work together. There is a growing need to include other strategies and skills development in classroom teaching. Both authors have attempted to use problem based learning (PBL) to strengthen and develop student competencies in the areas of information literacy, communication and solving 'real-world' problems. Our teaching approach is to integrate knowledge acquisition and teaching strategies to actively engage students in the learning process.