ProBase Project

Welcome to ProBase website!

Problem-based learning in vocational science - designing activities that develop the skills used by scientists in the workplace for integration into vocational science courses

Leonardo da Vinci Pilot project - HU/06/B/P/PP-170027

Most science courses are about 'how science works'. They look at how scientific concepts and ideas are developed and verified. Ideas about atoms and their structures is one example. Periodicity and organic reaction mechanisms are others.

Vocational science courses are different. Staffs working in science-based organisations use their skills and knowledge to solve practical scientific problems. For example, they make drugs and medicines and they measure air pollution. Their work affects the quality of our lives - now and in the future. It must be done well.

The ProBase project team has developed a range of activities to show 'how scientists work'. Students use scientific knowledge to tackle problems. They (a) work in teams, (b) manage their time, workload and resources, and (c) communicate with one another and non-scientists. These are essential skills used by practising scientists.