“Problem-Based Learning in European Public Affairs”

Spoormans, Huub. (1999) “Problem-Based Learning in European Public Affairs” . In European Union Studies Association (EUSA) > Biennial Conference > 1999 (6th), June 2-5, 1999, pages 22, Pittsburgh.

Abstract

Universiteit Maastricht (UM) and the European Institute for Public Administration (EIPA), both located in Maastricht, the Netherlands, offer an English-language postgraduate programme, leading to the degree of Master of European Public Affairs. The Maastricht Master’s is designed as a programme of professional education on European affairs. The challenge of professional education is to create a learning environment that integrates academic expertise with “learning by doing.” This paper describes how in the Maastricht Master’s program, problem-based learning is used as an education technology. Firstly, the professional goals and the consequent educational objectives are described. Secondly, two different teaching technologies are distinguished: teacher- and student-centered learning. Thirdly, problem-based learning is presented and discussed as a particular form of student-centered learning. Finally, the paper proposes a form of problem-based learning suited for public affairs education and based on project management techniques.