Creating learning problems in subjects and modules of the Psychology Course: A methodological approach

Abstract

The use of learning problems is an active teaching-learning strategy widely used in various methods and curricula, from case studies to problem-based learning. By using problems as a stimulus to activity, the teacher encourages self-directed learning, the development of fundamental metacognitive aspects, the acquisition of problem solving skills, and intrinsic interest. I describe a method for creating problems in undergraduate courses in Psychology, based on previous experiences in biomedical (e.g., Anatomophysiology Applied to Psychology) and more critical (e.g., disciplines related to mental health and psychopathology) subjects. The method starts from the integration of the elements of the discipline syllabus to mobilize questions that generate a thematic tree. I also propose the application of methods based on activity theory to evaluate and calibrate the problem. The proposed method can benefit both integrated curricula and more isolated disciplines.