Problem Based Learning – An Effective way of teaching DSP course

Abstract

The Digital Signal Processing (DSP) course is fundamental to many signal processing and communication applications. Since it is a mathematical intensive, faculty often face challenge in teaching and keeping students engaged for longer time. Students find it challenging to understand the core concepts and practical applications. The present work investigates Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach to enhance the teaching of DSP by integrating real-world problems and active learning strategies. This new approach was offered to third-year students of the university, combining PBL with traditional lectures. The curriculum is redesigned according to constructive alignment. It included core DSP concepts as modules, PBL activities for each module and their assessment. The PBL was implemented in different phases focusing on orientation, problem identification, signal analysis, and system design. The new experience resulted in improved student engagement, concept understanding, and problem-solving skills in DSP, with positive feedback from students. The future plan is to focus on addressing the challenges faced during the initial implementation and to refine the PBL approach for the next batch of students.