Thrombotic Microangiopathy Team-Based Learning Module for Second-Year Medical Students

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Hematology
• Diagnostic Medicine

Background:

• Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) syndromes present diagnostic challenges due to overlapping clinical and laboratory features.
• Prompt diagnosis of TMA is critical for effective patient management and improved outcomes.
• A team-based learning (TBL) module was developed for second-year medical students in a hematology course.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a TBL module in enhancing medical students' diagnostic skills for TMA.
• To assess student satisfaction and perceived learning gains from the TBL intervention.

Main Methods:

• Students received a preparatory lecture and read two articles (30 minutes total out-of-class time).
• A 1-hour TBL session was conducted in groups of eight, including readiness assurance tests and application exercises.
• Explanations for all answers were provided to instructors.

Main Results:

• Student surveys indicated improved ability to diagnose TMA after participating in the TBL.
• Participants found the preparatory materials sufficient and the session structure appropriate.
• Some students suggested a longer duration for application exercises (1.5 hours).

Conclusions:

• The TBL module was successful in enhancing students' diagnostic capabilities for TMA.
• Further development of TBL modules for the hematology course is planned.
• Additional measures of academic success will be investigated post-implementation.