The impact of problem-based learning and lecturing on the behavior and attitudes of Iranian nursing students. A randomised controlled trial

Abstract

The present study aimed to compare the effect of education through problem-based learning (PBL) or lectures on behavior, attitude and learning of nursing students. A total of 40 second-year nursing students participated: 20 students in the PBL group and 20 students in the traditional lecture (control) group. The students underwent a one-semester course using the two methods of education. The level of knowledge in the PBL group was significantly higher than that of students in the lecture group. In addition, a significant difference was found between the PBL and lecture groups in the level of attitude toward learning. The present study suggests a significant difference between PBL and traditional lecture groups with a more positive learning attitude and higher learning motivation in the PBL group (NCT00747188).