Current state of the effectiveness of problem-based learning in prosthodontics: a systematic review

The aim of this study was to systematically review the available literature on the effectiveness of problem-based learning (PBL) in prosthodontics. Both electronic and manual searches were performed by two reviewers. Of the 440 studies identified, ten met the inclusion criteria (Kappa=0.83). Various assessment tools such as standardized examinations (National Board Dental Examination and North East Regional Board of Dental Examiners exam) (22 percent), tutor evaluation (practical and examinations performance) (20 percent), curriculum time (20 percent) and number of units (10 percent), peer evaluation (10 percent), and self-evaluation (100 percent) were used in the included studies. Thirty percent of the studies adopted a control group for all measurements, 30 percent did for only some measurements, and the others lacked any control group. Although 30 percent of the studies implemented a hybrid PBL, the other studies did not mention the type of PBL. Based on the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP), all of the included studies were rated as being of weak quality. Heterogeneity across these studies in outcome variables, study designs, levels of PBL intervention, and study population limits any attempt to generalize the outcomes. The generally poor quality assessment outcomes warrant further studies on the effectiveness of PBL in prosthodontics education compared to a non-PBL curriculum.