Problem Based Economics: Teaching High School Students Economic Content and Problem-Solving Skills

Problem Based Economics is a curriculum that integrates problem-based learning with economics instruction to strengthen both content knowledge and problem-solving skills in high school students. The curriculum includes five modules that each take up a particular problem or challenge requiring economic exploration and analysis. The modules are designed to be used with a specific pedagogical strategy that involves a structured approach to problem-solving, including entry, problem framing, knowledge inventory, problem research and resources, problem twist, problem log, problem exit, and problem debriefing. Teachers are provided with professional development and ongoing support to implement the curriculum, including a five-day workshop and follow-up conference calls. The curriculum is designed to be used in a high school economics class, and the study tested its effectiveness in improving student content knowledge and problem-solving skills in economics.