MaTUTO: a problem-based learning approach applied to an ontology teaching case

Abstract

Introduction: The introduction of new teaching methodologies brings a proposal for the evolution of traditional teaching models, which have been shown to be less efficient due to the evolution of society and the use of technology. This inadequacy educational encouraged the construction of a proposal that condenses the steps of the Problem-Based Learning methodology, which was tested in the creation of a domain ontology defined by a tutor responsible for the teaching/learning activity. The article aims to present a methodology compatible with a dynamic reality that takes place at information systems disciplines and classes. The students involved in the experiment were also invited to evaluate the experience. Method: It presents the main features and steps of the Problem-Based Learning methodology, adjusted in the proposed MaTUTO (Map, TUtoring and Translate in Ontology), which was applied to undergraduate students. Results: It was possible to apply a methodology that adapts and condenses the original steps of the Problem-Based Learning approach as a support to subjects taught at Information Systems courses. The ontology was built and found satisfactory, as well as the results, coming from the students’ evaluation, were encouraging. Conclusion: Concerning the theme - the domain ontology - the alternative methodological proposal allowed the students not only to grasp the concepts involved in the Problem-Based Learning approach, but also had an information product outcome: the ontology itself.