Work

The Effects of Integrating PBL Teaching Strategies with Two-Tier Mandala Thinking on Innovation Education

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: In the digital era, industries increasingly demand innovation and problem-solving capabilities, making cross-disciplinary integration and creative thinking essential competencies for information management professionals. Although previous studies have shown that Problem-Based Learning (PBL) enhances students’ problem-solving abilities and proactive learning behaviors, its effectiveness in supporting creative extension and conceptual deepening remains limited without structured thinking frameworks. To address this issue, this study integrated PBL with a Two-Tier Mandala Thinking approach based on a nine-grid structure. The proposed method combines first-tier divergent thinking with second-tier spiral convergence to guide students in establishing conceptual foundations, differentiating ideas, and refining design directions. A quasi-experimental study was conducted in a course in which students completed a game design task using either the Two-Tier Mandala Thinking Method or conventional brainstorming strategies. Quantitative results indicate that students in the Mandala Thinking group significantly outperformed those in the brainstorming group across three learning performance metrics. Qualitative findings further revealed that students using the proposed approach exhibited enhanced creative self-efficacy and greater confidence in their creative outcomes. Overall, integrating Two-Tier Mandala Thinking into PBL effectively supported the experimental group in structuring and developing in-depth creative thinking processes, providing empirical evidence for its application in innovation-oriented information education.

Source: Applied Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/app16041903

Authors: Yu-Chen Kuo, Shih-Ying Lee

Institution: Soochow University

Language: English

Topic: Problem and Project Based Learning

Subfield: Education

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896