Advantages of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) as a Learning Method for International Law

Abstract

This paper shows how the «Problem-based learning» (PBL, using the English acronym) generates important benefits in the learning process of law students. The PBL is a methodological tool that facilitates the real integration of the European Space of Higher Education in the Spanish law schools (Introduction). Developing a successful PBL requires from the Professor a detailled work of planning and tutoring. The starting point is the choice of a fact pattern-problem with enough complexity and interest to attract and maintain students´ interest throughout the PBL. In this paper, the problem is a recent international case which connects to several States and is expected to be acquire great legal significance in the future. Professor individualizes in that case a series of relevant legal issues, whose detailed study is assigned to students grouped in pairs (Method). Applying the PBL, students become the protagonists of their own learning, since, among other benefits, they are responsible to locate, prioritize, internalize and apply the legal information they need to master the assigned topic. In the preparation and oral presentation of their conclusions to the group, students develop their skills of teamwork, decision making and synthesis, in the same way that they improve their verbal and physical expression. The final phase of brainstorming encourages their negotiating skills and role playing, sharpen their attention and prepare them for the optimal development of their future legal activities (Results). This paper allows us to reflect on the growing multi-disciplinarity and internationality of the legal practice and how Spanish Law Schools have to make use of mechanisms such as the PBL to give an optimal answer both to the student’s learning potential and to the requirements of a global market (Discussion).