In order to make its orientation of University of Applied Science (UAS) a success, INES is required to operate a complete shift in the philosophy and methodology of providing its educational services. One of the suitable methodologies for UAS is the Problem Based Learning (PBL). Despite various trainings on the matter and verbal encouragements from the top leaders, PBL is still not officially adopted and/or systematically practiced at INES. Besides, up to this date, no explicit strategic moves were adopted to ensure consistent and systematic implementation of PBL approach. This paper aims at laying the foundation to an action research geared towards developing strategic priorities for effective implementation of PBL in INES context. A pure qualitative approach was used. Data were collected from a sample of purposively selected students representatives and Deans of Faculties, using brainstorming technique. Identified strengths of INES include the leadership will regarding implementation of applied Science orientation, systematization of field visits, existence of adequate infrastructure, many young teaching staff etc. The fact that PBL is not applied in any other private university, labor market situation and needs, existence of innovative development programs at the country level were some identified opportunities. Challenges identified include lack of financial means, low level of English, staff turnover and many students who likely do not know what they exactly want. Three strategic goals namely (1) INES curricula are adapted to PBL, (2) the teaching, learning and assessment practices are aligned to PBL and/or its variants’ requirements, and (3) staff experience and competences are sustained as well as some specific strategic actions were proposed for implementing PBL in INES context. The paper ends recognizing that there is need to further the research using action research strategy in order to come up with generalizable and validated strategic priorities
Improving Nursing Care Documentation in Emergency Department: A Participatory Action Research Study in Iran
