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Integrating Simulated Patients in TBL: a Strategy for Success in Medical Education
Ashley K Fernandes1, Pat Ecklar2, Kristen Rundell3
1Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH USA.
Medical Science Educator
|August 30, 2021
Summary
Integrating simulated patients (SP) into team-based learning (TBL) improved medical education. This SP-TBL hybrid enhanced student engagement, practice, and feedback compared to traditional TBL methods.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Clinical Skills Training
- Pedagogy
Background:
- Team-based learning (TBL) and simulated patients (SP) are increasingly utilized in medical education.
- Traditional TBL has limitations that can be addressed by incorporating interactive elements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a hybrid simulated patient-team-based learning (SP-TBL) model.
- To compare the SP-TBL hybrid with traditional TBL and Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs).
Main Methods:
- A hybrid SP-TBL approach was implemented for fourth-year medical students from 2016 to 2018.
- An integrated SP interview was a key component of the curriculum.
- Student feedback was collected using a 9-item evaluation (n=114).
Main Results:
- Students reported positive attitudes towards the SP-TBL hybrid (mean Likert score 4.26/5).
- Qualitative analysis revealed four key themes: enhanced practice, increased engagement, effective SP utilization, and valuable feedback.
- The SP-TBL hybrid mitigated drawbacks associated with traditional TBL and OSCEs.
Conclusions:
- The SP-TBL hybrid offers a valuable alternative for medical training.
- Key advantages include improved opportunities for practice, higher student engagement, and immediate feedback.
- This integrated approach enhances the learning experience beyond traditional TBL.
