An evidence of group discussion and problem-solving skills in MBBS freshers: Implications and applications

Teachers need to follow adult learning principles and students need to have discussion and problem-solving skills for the use of active learning methods in classroom. We aimed to find out whether MBBS freshers had group discussion and problem-solving skills. A free group discussion session for problem-solving using adult learning principles was held during the foundation course for MBBS freshers. The task for group discussion was to give suggestions to improve the situation indicated by the given general medical professional problem. Qualitative deductive thematic analysis was used to analyze suggestions which could be grouped under the themes of seven roles of CanMEDS Physician Competency Framework. The results of deductive thematic analysis of suggestions of student groups are described under seven themes of the roles of the CanMEDS Physician Competency Framework. MBBS freshers showed excellent group discussion, plenary presentation, and problem-solving skills for the given problem. They also had relevant general knowledge about medical profession. Their problem-oriented thinking skills were facilitated using adult learning principles. It is recommended that the use of group discussion for problem-solving with facilitation by using adult learning principles should be emphasized in undergraduate medical education to promote the use of active learning methods in classroom.