Problem based learning versus project based learning in electrical-electronics engineering programs

The problem based learning and project based learning are two different but closely related examples of active learning methods used in engineering education programs as well as in non-engineering programs. The problem based learning is based on introducing a real engineering problem usually within a scenario to the students so that the students are asked to define the problem first and then produce a number of alternative solutions by brain storming in structured problem based learning sessions and then converge to a solution by elimination based on getting new information and on conducting analysis and/or experimentation. In the project based learning, a real problem is also given to the students but with a mini scenario defining the targets which might be a design and/or implementation task to be accomplished within economical, technical constraints concerning also environmental issues. The paper presents an evaluation of both methods in a comparative way with considering the experience in an electrical-electronics engineering program which had conducted problem based learning for 6 years. A discussion on meeting ABET and MUDEK criteria in problem based learning and in project based learning is also included in the paper.