Problem-Based Learning in medical schools worldwide

국외 의과대학의 문제바탕학습 (Problem-Based Learning)

Purpose : Since PBL was first developed by Howard Barrows at McMaster, it has been adopted as one of the best teaching and learning methods in medical schools throughout the world. However, the educational superiority of PBL relative to traditional approaches is less clear. Given the somewhat extensive resources required for the operation of PBL curriculum, this gives reason for concern. The aim of this study is to review experiences of PBL in other medical schools and learn how to implement PBL in our school. Methods : This study was undertaken in two stages. In the first stage, PBL curricular examples in 7 medical schools (University of Pennsylvania, University of Melbourne, University of Maastricht, McMaster University, Flinders University, Harvard medical school. University of California at L.A.) were collected and summarized. In the second stage, a careful search for articles of journals published since 2000 regarding PBL group assessment, effectiveness of PBL and group facilitation skills was conducted. Results : PBL is generally introduced in a core curriculum in undergraduate medical education. Relating to small group assessment, the perception of students has been well developed. but the current PBL assessment tool needs to be revised, to develop thinking skills of students. The PBL graduates considered themselves as having much better interpersonal skills, better competencies in problem solving and self-directed learning than the non-PBL graduates. Tutors used various techniques to raise awareness, facilitate the group process and direct learning. Conclusions : The following three aspects can be regarded as important in this study. First, to implement PBL in our school more effectively, it might be considered, which curriculum content can be best learned with PBL. Second, to enhance students' thinking skills during PBL, a new assessment tool needs to be developed. Third, tutors' competencies are important to facilitate, group process, so it would be worthwhile including in staff development.