Problem-based learning: its role in undergraduate surgical education

Abstract

Objective: To familiarize the surgeon with problem-based learning (PBL) and to discuss the current and future role of PBL in undergraduate surgical education.

Data sources: Two meta-analyses comparing the outcome of a PBL curriculum with a traditional curriculum and other studies in the English-language literature.

Study selection: Data on the effectiveness of PBL can best be assessed by a meta-analysis in which the conclusions of many studies are reviewed and combined to provide a more comprehensive picture. The studies chosen represent those from the only two recent meta-analyses of the problem that have appeared in reputable journals.

Data extraction: Results reported are those obtained using appropriate techniques and published in reputable journals. Information relevant to the major issues in undergraduate surgical training was selected for inclusion.

Data synthesis: PBL depends on self-directed learning, triggered by a clinical problem. The students meet in small groups led by a facilitator and discuss carefully designed clinical cases. At the conclusion, the students will have encountered all the information necessary to solve the case and, in so doing, will have gained knowledge that in a conventional curriculum would usually have been disseminated by lecture. There were only small differences between graduates from the two types of curricula. Those from a PBL curriculum had comparable examination results to those from a traditional curriculum on both basic science and clinically based examinations but were happier with their educational experiences.

Conclusions: Centres that have adopted a PBL approach have found improved student motivation and enjoyment, but there has been no convincing evidence of improved learning. An intelligent combination of both traditional and PBL approaches will likely provide the most effective training for undergraduate surgical clerks.