Integration of Problem-Based (PBL) Learning in Data Structures Course to Engage Undergraduate Students in Higher-Order Learning

Abstract—Data Structures is 3-credit course offered to undergraduate students in the computer science and engineering program in India. Data structures are fundamental to computer science, impacting algorithm effectiveness and software systems. Careful selection of data structures leads to quicker problem-solving, reduced memory usage and improved scalability across domains like databases, networking, web development, and artificial intelligence. The traditional lecture-based instruction approach emphasizes on memorization and basic implementation of data structure concepts like linked lists, stacks, queues, etc. It allows students to understand concepts superficially which promotes recollecting information but they struggle to apply data structure concepts effectively with higher-order thinking skills to solve real-world or complex problems. This pedagogical approach does not adequately prepare students for the assessments they encounter which test the student's ability in higher-order thinking skills. In this study, we present a conceptual framework of how current challenges in the Data Structures course could be addressed through the adoption of problem-based learning. Keyword—Collaborative Learning; Computing Education; Data Structures; Higher-order Learning; Problem-based learning;