Feasibility of a Comprehensive Medical Knowledge Curriculum in Internal Medicine Using Team-Based Learning.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Internal Medicine Residency Training
• Active Learning Strategies

Background:

• Team-based learning (TBL) is an active learning strategy.
• Existing literature on TBL in resident education is limited to pilot studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and assess the feasibility of a comprehensive medical knowledge TBL curriculum for an internal medicine residency program.

Main Methods:

• A 135-topic TBL curriculum was developed to replace traditional noon conferences over three years (2013-2016).
• Planning, curricular design, faculty development, and lesson structure were detailed.
• Feasibility was assessed via faculty participation, resident preparedness, satisfaction surveys, and costs.

Main Results:

• Faculty participation increased significantly with flexible development, and most found training adequate and materials helpful.
• Most residents completed readings, found them manageable, and preferred TBL over lectures.
• Implementation costs included compensated time for a TBL champion and an assistant.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive TBL curriculum for internal medicine residency medical knowledge is feasible.
• High faculty acceptance and learner satisfaction were achieved.
• Key success factors included departmental support, flexible faculty development, and robust resource materials.