Improving plumbing practical skills using problem based learning for civil engineering students at national instructors’ college, abilonino, Uganda

Abstract

This study was carried out in Kole District at (NICA) National Instructors College – Abilonino in the Department of Civil Engineering with an intention of improving practical skills using Problem Based Learning (PBL)- method. It was guided by four objectives: to identify challenges in plumbing practical skills, establish possible strategies to address the challenges, implement and evaluate the possible strategies. A participatory Action Research Model was used for the study. The inquiry used a descriptive study design taking a qualitative approach based on a sample of 22 participants comprised of the instructors, students, college administrators, employers and former students. The researcher used purposive sampling for selecting key participants for the case of this research. Situation analysis, Future workshop and focused group meetings provided descriptive data which were recorded and interpreted,basing on the PBL-method and Performance Guide (PG) technique. The main findings from the situation/work process analysis showed that graduates were having “inadequate practical skills” which could affect them not to perform well during the practical tasks. One of the major important reasons which was noted during the future workshop was due to ineffective methods of delivery by instructors. Possible strategies to address the challenge were achieved through brainstorming and discussion from the future workshop. All participarts agreed and recommended the use of PBL-method and PG technique to improve the performance of practical skills for civil engineering students at NIC-Abilonino. The study concluded that lack of practical skills was the main challenge for Civil Engineering students. Under this study, PBL-method and PG technique were used and proved to be effective and efficient tools which responded to the major challenge and the entire objectives of the study. The feedback that students received through organised practical work enabled them to improve plumbing practical skills and enhanced skills acquisition.