Designing web-based interactive learning environments for problem-based learning

Problem-based learning is a pedagogical strategy that centers learning activities around the investigation and development of solutions to complex and ill-structured authentic problems. A number of difficulties occur when implementing such approaches in schools. To address these difficulties, a software tool called INDIE was built to create web-based interactive learning environments where students can run simulated experiments, analyze test results, form rationales, and construct arguments to support or refute possible hypotheses. This paper focuses on how INDIE supports problem-based learning by creating an authentic environment that incorporates important aspects in real life, providing tools to help students perform problem-solving and receive coaching and critiquing, providing support for instructors to assess student understanding and provide feedback, and using an interface that allows open-ended inquiry and exploration. We present preliminary results showing Corrosion Investigator, a learning environment delivered by INDIE, to be beneficial for both the students and teacher in a class.