Continued multidisciplinary project-based learning - implementation in health informatics

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Computer Science Education

Background:

• Problem- and project-based learning are established educational methods.
• Health informatics training requires practical skills in realistic contexts.
• Continued multidisciplinary project-based learning (CM-PBL) was implemented in a medical informatics department.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of CM-PBL for medical and computer science students.
• To train students in scientific work and professional skills within a broader context.
• To foster lifelong learning, multidisciplinary teamwork, and social responsibility.

Main Methods:

• Students participated as full members in an ongoing research project.
• Students developed project-related applications, modules, or explored sub-projects.
• Guidance was provided by two teachers, with a defined workflow and milestones.
• The research team acted as a peer group for the students.

Main Results:

• A web-based hospital information system project provided a realistic scenario.
• The multidisciplinary research team included scientists and students from computer science and medicine.
• Effective communication and team policy promoted student engagement.
• Formative assessment indicated significant skill improvement and high participant satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• Project-based learning approaches empower students with scientific knowledge and professional competencies.
• CM-PBL particularly enhances skills in lifelong learning, multidisciplinary collaboration, and social responsibility.
• This educational model is beneficial for students specializing in health informatics.