Problem-Based Learning

Extra Credit Project

Prepared by: Steve Livergood

Extra Credit Project on Problem-Based Learning 1

Summary of the Case Study (Problem Description)

Recently, the school purchases a new Laser machine, which needed to be run by a computer. I decided to use a computer that I had in the classroom. It needed to be loaded with antivirus software as well as the software necessary to run the Laser. The antivirus would be loaded to protect the machine against viruses that may have been brought in from students on their home discs.

While trying to load the machine’s operating software and the antivirus, the computer would freeze or lock up. The company was immediately contracted concerning this problem. The company came in to try and load the operating system of the machine and ran into the same problem.

Summary of Reference and Materials Used

www.epiloglaser.com.

The Epilog website listed the computer’s required recommendations of Windows XP (any version ) or Windows 2000 and a 32 bit processor and operating system with 512MB Ram, CD-Rom or CD/RW, 3.5” Floppy Drive, 2.0 GHz or Faster Processor, 10/100 Network Interface Card, 40 GB Hard Drive, which is the minimum (faster processor the better).

www.microsoft.com.

We also access the website and check to see the operating compatible with specification with Window XP and the operating the machine operating system.

Extra Credit Project on Problem-Based Learning 2

Solutions Derived from Applying the PBL Model.

After the technician checked the operating systems on the computer it was determined that Windows 98 did not have the system’s recommendations for the machine’s operating system.

The Information Technology technician in our school mistakenly assumed that Windows 98 would meet the recommendations to run the machine without checking first.

Observations, Team Interactions, and Personal Comments.

The company’s service technician along with the Parkway West CTC Information Technology technician replaced the computer with one that had the Windows XP operating system already loaded. The company’s technician warned us that the Laser machine would not work with the new Microsoft Vista.

Working together as a team we were able to get the Laser machine up and running. The representative from the company also suggested that we have internet connection with this computer to take advantage of free upgrades of software at www.epiloglaser.com. He suggested the internet browser, Mozilla Firefox, which the school already has up and running.

Extra Credit Project on Problem-Based Learning 3

Thoughts in Applying the PBL Model

The implementations of the PBL model helped me state and understand the problem quickly and effectively to the technicians involved. The problem seemed to be overwhelming at first; however, the company technician explained that this is quite a common problem.

The PBL model helps you understand problems and gives you a clear path in solving them. The ability to use the research sources available as well as the expertise of the two technicians I was able to see that this technology problem was not as overwhelming as first thought.

I would consider utilizing this model when teaching problem solving techniques to my students here at Parkway West CTC.

Extra Credit Project on Problem-Based Learning 4

References