Do We Need to Apply Problem Based Learning Model to Improve Students' Communication Skills?

Abstract

— This paper reviews the application of problem based learning (PBL) model to improve the communication skills of students in elementary classrooms. Nowadays, elementary school students need to be equipped not only with academic knowledge but also the 21 st century skills. Communication skills is the 21 st century skills which has gained a lot of attention in recent years. It has become one of the key skills to be implemented in elementary school. Communication skills are the ability to express thoughts clearly in an effective way. However, several studies highlight the teachers’ difficulties and challenges in integrating communication skills. For instance, Asian students assume that it is better to be silent than what is said is wrong and can disappoint others. This occurs as a result of cultures in Asia that uphold the value of obedience to teachers. PBL model can be applied as the way to improve students’ communication skills. Employing learning activities based on real-life problems is considered as a potential strategy to bridge the gap between the classroom and real world. Also, this method encourages students to be actively involved, conduct group discussions, and deliver classroom presentations which stimulate the students’ communication skills. Thus, employing PBL model can improve students’ communication skills.