Final answer:
The correct option is 4). In problem-based learning, the instructor acts as a facilitator, guiding students to actively solve problems and develop key skills. The instructor's guide aids facilitation by providing structure, resources, and tools for dynamic learning. Facilitation focuses on nurturing critical thinking and self-directed learning in students.
Step-by-step explanation:
In problem-based learning, the role of the instructor is that of a facilitator. This educational strategy shifts the instructor's function from being the main source of information (as in traditional lecture-based learning) to a guide who helps students to engage actively in their learning process. Through facilitation, the instructor supports students as they work collaboratively to solve complex, real-world problems, thereby developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
The facilitator's role includes managing the learning environment, providing resources, asking probing questions, and nurturing the skills necessary for students to learn effectively from the problems they engage with. This approach is underpinned by the philosophy articulated by Paulo Freire that education should empower students to become themselves, encouraging insight and personal ownership of the material.
Moreover, the instructor's guide is a crucial tool that provides the structure and resources necessary for facilitating learning. It may include lecture outlines, key terms, discussion questions, and recommended resources, all designed to support dynamic and engaging interactions between students and the course material. A facilitator often employs a range of skills, from understanding the subject matter to communicating effectively and responding to the needs of the group.