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Peer-assisted learning combined with problem-based learning enhances clinical reasoning and knowledge application
Jingtao Xie1,2, Ziyan Chen1,2, Duhuang Lin1,2
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China.
Peer-Assisted Problem-Based Learning (PA-PBL) improved medical students' clinical reasoning and knowledge application. This active learning strategy enhances learning outcomes and may reduce educational costs, suggesting broader implementation potential.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Active Learning Methodologies
- Clinical Reasoning Development
Background:
- Problem-based learning (PBL) and peer-assisted learning (PAL) are active learning methods in medical education.
- PBL faces challenges like faculty workload, while PAL can have ambiguous objectives and tutor proficiency issues.
- This study introduces Peer-Assisted Problem-Based Learning (PA-PBL) to address these limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of PA-PBL in enhancing medical students' clinical reasoning.
- To assess PA-PBL's impact on knowledge application among medical students.
- To explore PA-PBL as a potentially more efficient educational model.
Main Methods:
- A non-randomized controlled trial involving 523 second-year medical students.
- Experimental group (134 students) received PA-PBL supplementing lectures; control group (389 students) received lectures only.
- Learning outcomes assessed via quizzes, exams, and Kirkpatrick model surveys (reaction and learning levels); data analyzed using non-parametric tests and chi-squared tests.
Main Results:
- Experimental group showed significant improvements in quiz scores (12.3-6.8% increases) and higher scores on knowledge-recall MCQs, case-based MCQs, and MEQs (P<0.05).
- Students in the PA-PBL group achieved higher academic rankings after four study rounds compared to two rounds (P<0.05).
- Surveys indicated high satisfaction, with average reaction and learning level scores above 4.7/5 (Kirkpatrick model).
Conclusions:
- PA-PBL effectively improves knowledge mastery and case analysis skills.
- The PA-PBL model enhances clinical reasoning and knowledge application abilities in medical students.
- PA-PBL is a valuable, potentially cost-effective methodology for broader implementation in medical education.
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