Problem-Based Learning: Introduction & Rationale

1. Problem-Based Learning: Introduction & Rationale

2. By the end of this session you will • Define PBL • Identify the rationale for PBL • List advantages and disadvantages of PBL

3. What is Problem-Based Learning? • A learning method based on the principle of using problems as a starting point for the acquisition and integration of new knowledge.”H.S. Barrows 1982

4. Problem-based learning is designed to enable students to: • Engage problems they face in life and career with initiative. • Solve problems effectively using an integrated, flexible and usable knowledge base. • Employ effective self-directed learning skills to continue learning as a lifetime habit. • Continuously monitor and assess the adequacy of their knowledge, problem-solving and self-directed learning skills. • Collaborate effectively as a member of a group.

5. What was promised? • According to the early literature, PBL would contribute to • Renewal of the medical curriculum • A more student-centered learning environment • Students acquiring better clinical reasoning skills • Students acquiring better interpersonal skills • Acquisition and retention of relevant medical knowledge.

6. Did PBL act as a enzyme for curriculum renewal? Generally: Yes • Many schools have integrated basic-science with clinical-science teaching: both horizontally and vertically, • Greater emphasis on community health needs, • Earlier introduction into the health care system, • Many schools use patient problems as focus of learning,

7. Does PBL provide a more student-centered learning environment? • According to most studies: Yes • Students report less stress & fewer feelings of being powerless (Kuhnigk & Schauenburg, 1999), • Students feel more supported by learning environment, and experience more social support (Kiessling, et al., 2004). • …….. Etc

8. Does PBL help students to acquire clinical reasoning skills? • According to few studies available: Yes • What type of studies?

9. Traditional v PBL Traditional PBL

10. Potentially important professional competencies of university graduates? • Getting much work done • productivity, efficiency, effectiveness • Getting work done with the help of others • team work, leadership • Getting work done in new innovative ways • creativity, problem-solving • Getting work done using science • finding, reviewing, producing, disseminating scientific knowledge

11. Does PBL help students acquire such professional competencies? • All studies point in the same direction: Yes • e.g.,

12. Advantages of PBL • PBL enhances active learning; • It is multidisciplinary; • Learning is problem driven; • Learning occurs in small tutorial groups; • Student-Centered learning; • Integrative thinking • Self directed learning • Motivation for learning; • Learning environment is realistic; and • Assessment matches educational objectives.

13. Disadvantages of PBL • It is costly; • Large and well trained staff is needed; • More time is needed; • Large physical structure is required; and • It needs more resources.

14. There are 2 educational approaches: one is to simply tell students what they need to know

15. the other is to show students how to learn doing it !!!!

16. Thank you