Title: Study on problem-based learning towards improving soft skills of students in effective communication class

Authors: Sadia Deep; Berhannudin Mohd Salleh; Hussain Othman

Addresses: Faculty of Science Technology and Human Development, University of Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, 86400 Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, Johor, Malaysia ' Faculty of Science Technology and Human Development, University of Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, 86400 Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, Johor, Malaysia ' Faculty of Science Technology and Human Development, University of Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, 86400 Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, Johor, Malaysia

Abstract: A bulk of studies indicates an improvement of various soft skills through applying problem-based learning (PBL) approach but there is still a dearth of such pedagogies in the Asia region. The core objective of this study was, therefore, to identify the effects of electronic PBL on the soft skills, conflict resolution traits, and aspects of enhancing group learning among undergraduate. Through a mixed method approach, a total 57 students from different faculties at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia participated in the semester-long research study. Pre-test and post-test were administered at the beginning and end of the semester along with observing the sessions and analysing the documents. The computation of mean compared with the standard value of the mean of the pre and post-test revealed the significant effect of PBL on improving the soft skills of the students and enhancing group learning including overcoming communication conflicts. The observation and document analysis supported the findings obtained from the questionnaire.

Keywords: problem-based learning; PBL; soft skills; conflict resolution skills; group learning; mixed methods; social media; communication conflicts.

DOI: 10.1504/IJIL.2019.096512

International Journal of Innovation and Learning, 2019 Vol.25 No.1, pp.17 - 34

Received: 11 Oct 2017
Accepted: 22 Dec 2017
Published online: 05 Dec 2018 *

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