The implementation of problem-based learning in health service management training programs

Area of Science:

• Health Services Management
• Medical Education
• Public Health

Background:

• Traditional lecture-based training is common in health services management.
• There is a need for more effective pedagogical approaches to enhance management capacity in healthcare.
• Problem-based learning (PBL) is an alternative educational strategy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing a problem-based learning (PBL) approach in health services management training.
• To assess student perceptions of PBL in a postgraduate public health management program.

Main Methods:

• A problem-based learning (PBL) model, based on the Maastricht University approach, was implemented.
• Second-year postgraduate students in a Master in Public Health Management program participated.
• Student opinions were gathered through a questionnaire with open-ended questions and analyzed using thematic content analysis.

Main Results:

• Students found PBL to be a more interesting and effective learning method, facilitating knowledge retention through self-study and peer discussion.
• PBL fostered a rapid exchange of ideas and sharing of personal experiences among students.
• Participants highlighted PBL's effectiveness in developing skills such as public speaking, communication, and logical thinking.

Conclusions:

• Problem-based learning (PBL) shows potential as an effective pedagogical approach for health services management education.
• Students strongly recommended the integration of PBL methodologies across the health services management curriculum.
• Consideration of potential implementation challenges is advised for successful adoption of PBL.