The Effectiveness of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) Online on Students' Creative and Critical Thinking in Physics at Tertiary Level in Malaysia

Abstract

This study seeks to address concerns expressed about higher education in Malaysia. In 2006, for example, almost 70 percent of Malaysian graduates were unable to secure employment (Ram, 2006), and in the Budget speech by the Prime Minister, the number of unemployed graduates in 2007 was reported to number about 31,000 (Shakir, 2009). • The latest report revealed about 32,000 graduate students failed to get any job in any sector (Utusan Malaysia, 2010), something attributed to a lack of creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. • Hence, this study seeks to develop a teaching and learning approach based on problem-based learning (PBL) online to help Malaysian higher education teachers develop creativity and critical skills in their students.