PROBLEM BASED LEARNING AS AN APPROACH TO INCREASE STUDENTS’ SOFT SKILLS: Case Study At Economics Faculty, Widyatama University, Bandung, Indonesia
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Date
2009-10-13
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Volume Title
Publisher
The 9TH SEAAIR Annual Conference: 13-15 October 2009, Pulau Pinang, MALAYSIA
Abstract
Problem Based Learning is an instructional approach that has been used successfully implemented over the years and will continue to gain acceptance in multiple disciplines. Problem Based Learning is a student-centered learning that empowers students to conduct active learning. Skills such as cooperation, communication, and problem solving which are valued by the employer hopefully can be gained through this approach. The purpose of this paper is to analyze students’ response to Problem Based Learning in Auditing class. The respondents are 25 Auditing class students. The methodology employed during the study enhanced a student centered learning, problem oriented learning approach. The teaching strategy was designed in 4 phases: (1) Theory Presentation: Developing students’ auditing skills, (2) Small group discussion on a case study: Developing students’ problem solving skill (3) Presentation of the paper: Developing students communication skills, and (4) Home group: Developing students interpersonal and self directed learning. The study found that problem based learning employed in Auditing class increased the students’ communication, problem-solving, team work skills. These results were positive and the students were in favor of problem based learning approach compared to teacher-centered approach. Conclusion: The PBL employed in Auditing class proved to be effective and was perceived by the students as a valuable and appropriate strategy.
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Keywords
Learning, Soft Skills