A problem-based learning approach to integrating foreign language into engineering

Problem-based learning (PBL) is an instructional methodology placing primary emphasis on students solving realistic problems in a team-oriented environment. Here we discuss using PBL to integrate a language for specific purposes (LSP) track into an undergraduate biological engineering curriculum as a way to prepare students for an engineering career requiring job-specific foreign language skills. In Part I we review PBL theory and anticipate problerns that may arise when merging it with an LSP track. In Part I we detail the development of a PBL/LSP rnodule, including module performance objectives and assessment instruments. Areas of potential future research also are highlighted.