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Implementation of a Surgical Problem-Based Learning Curriculum: A One-Year Single-Center Experience.
Joshua P Kronenfeld1, Rebecca A Saberi1, Alessia C Cioci1
1DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
The American Surgeon
|March 14, 2022
Summary
Resident-led Problem-Based Learning (PBL) enhanced surgical clerkship preparedness for medical students. PBL sessions, even virtual ones, were preferred over traditional lectures for exams and clinical cases.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Training
- Problem-Based Learning
Background:
- Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is established in preclinical medical education.
- Its efficacy in clinical settings, particularly surgery clerkships, requires further evaluation.
- This study examines a resident-led PBL program's impact on third-year medical students.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the outcomes of a 1-year resident-led Problem-Based Learning (PBL) program in a third-year surgery clerkship.
- To compare student self-reported preparedness after PBL sessions versus traditional faculty-led lectures.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of PBL in both in-person and virtual formats.
Main Methods:
- A Problem-Based Learning (PBL) curriculum was developed by surgical faculty and residents.
- Surveys assessed student preparedness and preferences for PBL versus lectures.
- Data were analyzed using standard statistical methods, including Likert scale ratings.
Main Results:
- 129 of 165 (78%) MS3 students completed the survey.
- In-person PBLs were significantly preferred over lectures for NBME exams, oral exams, and surgical cases (P < .001).
- Virtual PBLs also showed preference over lectures for NBME exams (P < .001) and surgical cases (P = .05).
Conclusions:
- Resident-led Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is a valuable educational tool for medical students.
- PBL demonstrates superiority over traditional lectures in preparing students for examinations and clinical scenarios.
- PBL can serve as an effective adjunct to clinical surgical education.
