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Problem-Solving Before Instruction (PS-I): A Protocol for Assessment and Intervention in Students with Different Abilities
Published on: September 11, 2021
Video-based cases disrupt deep critical thinking in problem-based learning.
Robindra Basu Roy1, Graham T McMahon
1Department of Paediatric Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, St. Mary's Campus, London, UK.
Medical Education
|March 21, 2012
Summary
Students prefer video cases in problem-based learning (PBL), but video may reduce deep thinking. Text-based cases appear more effective for fostering critical analysis in PBL, especially for cases without physical signs.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Video is a popular tool in problem-based learning (PBL), but its impact on cognitive processes and critical thinking requires further investigation.
- Existing research on video in PBL has primarily focused on cases with physical signs, where video offers clear advantages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate medical students' preferences for video- versus text-based cases in PBL.
- To evaluate the effects of video-based versus text-based cases on students' deep thinking skills.
Main Methods:
- A crossover study involving four tutorial groups using both video- and text-based cases portraying patients with psychosocial conditions.
- Transcripts of tutorials were coded for depth of thinking by a blinded coder.
- Statistical analysis using a generalized estimating equation model to compare deep versus superficial thinking and learning preferences.
Main Results:
- Students and tutors showed a preference for video-based cases (59% and 78%, respectively).
- However, video-based cases were associated with significantly lower odds of deep thinking compared to text-based cases (OR 0.663, p < 0.0001).
- This reduction in deep thinking was also observed in the problem exploration domain (OR 0.559, p = 0.0125).
Conclusions:
- While learners prefer video-based cases in problem-based learning (PBL), their use may hinder the development of deep thinking.
- For PBL cases lacking dynamic physical signs, text-based materials may be more conducive to fostering critical thinking and in-depth analysis.
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