Plain English Meaning
A way of teaching where the student learns by tackling a real-world problem, figuring out what's needed to solve it, and working toward a solution with the instructor guiding rather than lecturing.
Full Definition
An instructional method in which learners acquire knowledge and skills by working through realistic, ill-structured problems drawn from the operational world, rather than by receiving information first and applying it later. The instructor presents a scenario that requires the learner to identify what they know, what they need to find out, and how to reach a workable solution, with guidance provided as a facilitator rather than as a lecturer.
Context Anchor
Seen in flight instructor training and lesson planning, especially when discussing how to teach decision-making and real-world judgment.
Derivation
From 'problem,' meaning a question put forward for solution, and 'based,' meaning founded on. The method is named for what drives the : the problem itself comes first, and everything the student studies is in of solving it.