Software engineering lecturers are faced with the teaching of concepts which sometimes are not easy for inexperienced students to understand. Therefore, it can be useful to consider and use non-traditional teaching methods which can improve students' learning. In this paper, we discuss problem-based learning and how its use can improve students' understanding of concepts. We present factors which should exist in 'pure' problem-based learning. We then describe how one of the authors used problem-based learning in a class who were required to understand information flows through software engineering diagramming techniques, with the ultimate view to being able to analyse and design computerized information systems. This problem-based learning class was observed and analysed by the second author. The analysis presented focuses on the problem-based learning factors, how they were implemented in class, and the strengths and weaknesses of the use of problem-based learning in this way. In conclusion, the authors discuss how the teaching could be improved through modifying the teaching method for a future class in which problem-based learning will be used. This modification is expected to enhance the students' learning and their experience. © 2009 IEEE.