In November 2005, FACiLiTATE, the Problem-based Learning (PBL) Network in Ireland came into being with a mandate to facilitate the sharing of PBL experience and expertise across disciplines and institutions in Ireland. Over the past five years, the steering committee has supported educational practitioners in the development and design of PBL curricula for the future. Many practitioners seek new and innovative ways to approach teaching for both small and large classes. In response to this, FACiLiTATE has provided guidance on how PBL can transform the learning experience as well as meeting institutional strategic demands by facilitating the development of key graduate skills for the future such as problem solving, critical thinking, reflective practice and information literacy.

This paper will demonstrate how the FACiLiTATE Steering Committee has continued to actively support and develop the PBL community in Ireland over the past five years. We will discuss the role of our annual Summer Schools and practical workshops in supporting the development of PBL in Ireland and how the committee has specifically met the needs of those with both limited and extensive experience of PBL. We will also illustrate how we provide participants with access to practical advice and support through experienced local (Irish) practitioners and blend this with a wealth of experience, knowledge and skills from key international experts in the field of Problem and Enquiry Based Learning. We will conclude by demonstrating how FACiLiTATE has presented the practice and research of PBL within Irish higher education at an international level and examine how, despite difficult times, we intend to support the development and design of innovative curricula into the future.