Transforming Medical Training Through Online Case-Based Learning: Brief Review

Online case-based learning (CBL) is a pedagogical approach that employs the use of digital platforms and virtual environments to discuss clinical cases with undergraduate medical students. The purpose of the current review is to explore the scope and merits of online case-based learning, development of a plan for designing and implementing online CBL sessions in a medical college for undergraduate medical students. This happens to be an innovative approach as students get an opportunity to discuss and analyze clinical cases by practically applying their theoretical knowledge to clinical practice. Like any teaching-learning method, the effectiveness of online CBL sessions also depends on the efforts taken by educators in the planning stage. As these sessions will be conducted online, the most important consideration is to ensure that students have access to the required technology. As we all know, assessment drives learning, there is a definite need to supplement teaching-learning activities in online CBL sessions with suitable formative assessments. In conclusion, online CBL is an effective pedagogical approach to promote discussion on interesting clinical cases using flexible online platforms. Considering the merits of the method and the fact that technology has become an integral part of medical education delivery, every medical institute must explore its infrastructure to systematically introduce online CBL within the medical curriculum.