Ongelmaperusteinen

Ongelmaperusteinen is the Finnish adjective used to describe a learning approach in which the central driver of instruction is a real-world problem or a set of ill-structured problems. The term is the Finnish counterpart of problem-based learning (PBL) and signals a shift from teacher-centered lectures to student-centered inquiry aimed at acquiring knowledge, skills, and metacognitive strategies through problem solving.

Problem-based learning emerged in the late 1960s and 1970s, with McMaster University's medical program often cited as a starting point. Since then it has been adapted across disciplines and countries, including Finland, where it is applied in medicine, nursing, engineering, business, and teacher education. Finnish practice typically emphasizes collaborative work, facilitator support, and integration of theory with practice.

In a typical ongelmaperusteinen course, students work in small groups on a complex problem presented as a case or scenario. The process proceeds through phases such as problem analysis, identification of knowledge gaps, self-directed study, synthesis of new information, and group reporting with reflection. A facilitator guides discussion, clarifies objectives, and ensures alignment with learning outcomes.

Proponents argue that ongelmaperusteinen promotes critical thinking, problem solving, cooperation, and transfer of knowledge to real contexts. Critics point to high demands on time and resources, uneven results depending on implementation, and challenges in assessment. Evaluation often uses rubrics, portfolios, and performance tasks to judge process and mastery.