Case-Based E-Learning for Real-World Problem Solving

One of the primary goals of both higher education and corporate training is to generate highly qualified professionals who are able to solve real-world, complex problems based on professional and scientific knowledge. Yet enhancing real-world problem solving abilities within current classroom, e-learning, and blended settings is an on-going challenge faced by instructors and trainers. Knowledge gained from learners’ experiences with well-structured problems, which have often been employed in typical college classrooms and corporate training sessions, is not sufficient for them to solve real-world problems, which are often characterized as uncertain, dynamic, complex, vague, urgent, time-pressed, and ill-structured. Thus, a gap exists between learning and real-world problem solving. How can we close the gap by applying feasible case-based e-learning models into current face-to-face, e-learning, and blended settings? In this session, the presenter will (1) redefine the gap from a perspective of problem typology, (2) propose an underlying framework to diagnose the limitations of exiting learning environments, (3) present case-based e-learning design models that can close the gap, and (4) demonstrate cases which will illustrate how innovative case-based e-learning environments can enhance real-world problem solving abilities. Finally, this session will end by discussing the implications of case-based e-learning for helping HRD (Human Resources Development) professionals to make successful decisions on the evaluation, selection, design, and implementation of training programs for enhancing learners’ real-world problem solving abilities.