The Combination of Traditional Teaching Method and Problem Based Learning

In this article, I will discuss some advantages and disadvantages of problem based learning (PBL). Then some differences between mathematics and other fields of science are discussed, using some examples to show the main points in mathematics teaching, and also using examples of PBL in mathematics teaching. Finally, I will discuss some of the skills of mathematics teaching. There is a trend nowadays to refer to problem based learning simply as PBL and it has been acknowledged as very important in our teaching and in students’ learning. However, I will make a case for combining PBL with conventional teaching for the teaching of mathematics. In China, there is an ancient great educator named Confucius, who was greatly respected by a lot of Chinese people, especially ancient Chinese people. More than 2000 years ago, Confucius had a lot of things to say about how to teach and how to study. Another Chinese educator Han Yu said, “A teacher is to propagate the doctrines of the ancient sages, give academic instructions, and remove doubts in life”. There are some people who want to abandon almost conventional education. In my own opinion, there must be something good in it since it has lasted for thousands of years. The question is how can we distinguish what is good for teaching and learning now, from what should be adapted or abandoned?