A conference was held in Malaysia focusing on the increasingly popular teaching model of ‘Problem-based Learning’ (PBL), in which Bahrain Polytechnic is counted amongst the educational institutions which adopt the international practice.
The conference, which took place on 2nd and 3rd July , “The 4th International Research Symposium on Problem Based Learning’ (IRSPBL), aimed to share, compare and publicize practices, whilst creating new theories of teaching and learning in PBL through paper presentations and panel discussions over 90 minutes.
Oonagh McGrirr, Bahrain Polytechnic’s Acting Manager for Teaching & Learning represented the Polytechnic during the two day conference and she presented an academic paper regarding the continuing professional development of academic staff (CPD).
The session was co-presented by the UNESCO World Chair of PBL in Engineering Education, Dr. Annette Kolmos.
“I’m delighted I had the opportunity to not only network and raise the profile of Bahrain Polytechnic, but also gain an immense amount of knowledge and experience from the convention.” she said.
“I was involved in group discussions and sessions with many international colleagues, and was able to deepen my understanding as well as qualify how Bahrain Polytechnic compares to its counterparts in terms of international standards.”
Dr. Mohammed Al-Aseeri, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain Polytechnic commented: “It’s remarkable to see that our practices are recognized and following global values. Our attendance at the conference is bound to increase our image as a well-established government educational institution. Furthermore, we strive to keep meeting Bahrain’s Government Plan 2011-2014 goals as well as its 2030 vision.”
Organized by Unisersiti Teknologi Malaysia, in collaboration with the UNESCO Chair in Problem Based Learning, IRSPBL brought together researchers and practitioners in higher education, studying all aspects of the learning process in problem based and project based learning, and those involved in the implementation of these approaches across the disciplines from all over the world.
