Editing Problem-based learning (section)

==== Research tools ====
Once the problem has been identified, learners move into the second step of PBL: the information gathering phase. In this phase, learners research the problem by gathering background information and researching potential solutions. This information is shared with the learning team and used to generate potential solutions, each with supporting evidence.<ref name=":3">"Steps to a Problem-Based Learning Approach." (n.d.). Center for Teaching. https://teach.its.uiowa.edu/sites/teach.its.uiowa.edu/files/docs/docs/Steps_of_PBL_ed.pdf. Retrieved 8 October 2017.</ref> The most popular online tool for gathering information today is Google, but there are many other search-engines available online. Free search engines, such as [[Google Search|Google]], [[Yahoo! Search|Yahoo]], or [[Bing (search engine)|Bing]], offer access to seemingly countless links to information. While these research tools provide ample sources of potential information, the quantity can be overwhelming. It also becomes difficult to identify quality sources without adding filters and higher-level search strategies when using these broad search-engines. Libraries are a more selective option and often offer online-databases, but typically require an account or subscription for online access to articles and books. [[Wolframalpha.com]] is a smart search-engine with both free and subscription level access options. Wolfram claims to be more than a platform for searching the web, rather, "getting knowledge and answers... by doing dynamic computations based on a vast collection of built-in data, algorithms, and methods."<ref>[http://www.wolframalpha.com/ "Wolfram|Alpha: Computational Knowledge Engine"]. ''www.wolframalpha.com''. Retrieved 2017-11-02.</ref>