Improving Pharmacology Standardized Test and Final Examination Scores Through Team-Based Learning

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pharmacology Pedagogy

Background:

• Team-based learning (TBL) is an active learning strategy.
• TBL promotes student engagement and knowledge application.

Purpose of the Study:

• Compare pharmacology exam scores between TBL and traditional lecture-based learning.
• Evaluate the impact of TBL on student learning outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A before-and-after study design was used.
• 338 prelicensure students participated.
• Pharmacology was taught using either TBL or traditional lectures.

Main Results:

• Students in the TBL group achieved higher scores on final course and standardized exams.
• Significant differences in academic performance were observed between the two groups.

Conclusions:

• Team-based learning positively impacts student learning outcomes in pharmacology.
• TBL may be a more efficient teaching method, requiring fewer credit hours for content delivery.