The study examined the extent of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) integration across initiation, implementation, and evaluation stages in Latvian higher education from the perspective of academic staff. A questionnaire survey conducted in May–June 2025 among 51 faculty members across four higher education institutions included 25 statements assessing PBL integration (α = .914) and 5 statements on institutional support (α = .836). Findings indicate that PBL is increasingly embedded in academic staff teaching practices, promoting student autonomy and collaboration. However, integration remains uneven across stages. The initiation stage demonstrated limited engagement with external stakeholders and academic colleagues teaching concurrent or prior courses, with over 60% of academic staff disagreeing that such cooperation occurs. In the evaluation stage, weak emphasis on assessment components was observed. Specifically, endorsement of using a triad of assessment elements—solution, process, and student self-assessment—varied by age group. Institutional support for PBL was perceived as limited, with the most significant gaps reported in methodological support (60.8% negative responses), administrative support (62.8% negative), and professional development opportunities (54.9% negative). In turn, correlation analysis indicated that institutional support was positively associated with the initiation stage (rs = .303, p =.031). These findings underscore the need of broader institutional commitment and resources to ensure sustainable and effective PBL integration in Latvian higher education. The study was part of the research project "Application of problem-based learning as a pedagogical approach in higher education in Latvia" (grant No. RTU-PA-2024/1-0067) within the framework of the European Union Recovery and Resilience Mechanism-funded project No. 5.2.1.1.i.0/2/24/I/CFLA/003.

Authors:
Inese Lusena-Ezera, Riga Technical University Liepaja Academy, Latvia
Diāna Liduma, Riga Technical University Liepaja Academy, Latvia
Daina Vasiļevska, Riga Technical University Liepaja Academy, Latvia
Una Libkovska, Riga Technical University Liepaja Academy, Latvia

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Inese Lusena-Ezera is currently a professor of Educational management at Liepaja Academy, Riga Technical University, Latvia.

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