Navigating Problem Based Learning

Many medical and health professional schools have replaced their traditional curriculum with problem based learning, or a derivative. This book is designed to provide a comprehensive guide and resource for students in the early years of these courses, and will assist them to adapt their learning style to working with others in small groups. The book explains the differences between PBL and traditional learning, the aims and essential elements of PBL, and provides the keys for successful group discussion. Students are shown how to define the learning issues and how to construct their own mechanisms for each case they study, before moving on to the aims and tools commonly used in assessment, and tips for increasing scores in examinations. The book will also assist tutors to design cases.

Table of Contents:
Foreword Preface About This Book Why Did I write This Book? Who Should Read This Book? How This Book Is Organized PART I Introduction to Problem-Based Learning 1. Problem-Based Learning Overview Why Do We Do Problem-Based Learning? How Is Problem-Based Learning Different from What I Used to Do? Defining Problem-Based Learning What Are the Aims of Problem-Based Learning? What Are the Roles of Tutors in Problem-Based Learning? 2. Problem-Based Learning Cases Essential Elements in a Problem-Based Learning Case Educational Tasks in Problem-Based Learning Templates What Makes a Good Problem-Based Learning Case? 3. Problem-Based Learning Tutorials Steps in Problem-Based Learning Tutorials Student-Centered Approach and Collaborative Learning Qualities of a Successful Group Keys for Successful Group Discussion Action Verbs and Group Dynamics Typical Problems in Problem-Based Learning Tutorials PART II How to Foster Your Study Skills in a Problem-Based Learning Course? 4. Self-Directed Learning What Does Self-Directed Learning Mean? Self-Directed Learning vs Spoon Feeding Approach Self-Directed Learning and Problem-Based Learning Curriculum Research and Self-Directed Learning 5. Learning Issues Introduction Defining the Learning Issues of a Problem-Based Learning Course Approaches for Collection of Information Construction of Information 6. Construction of Mechanisms and Flow Diagrams Introduction Backward versus Forward Mechanisms Uses of Mechanisms in Tutorial 1 and Tutorial 2 Use of Mechanisms and Flow Diagrams in Assessment Keys for Successful Writing of Mechanisms 7. Effective Use of Recourses Introduction Resources Used in Problem-Based Learning Courses Searching For Scientific Reviews Effective Use of Medical Dictionaries Effective Use of Textbooks Effective use of Online Resources and Computer-Aided Learning Programs 8. Keys to Foster Your Study Skills Becoming Organized First Things First Discover the Power of Self-Motivation Enhance Your Concentration Monitor Your Progress Ask For Help When Needed Ask For Feedback Learn How to Manage Your Stress 9. Portfolio and Reflective Journals What is a portfolio? Use of a Portfolio in a Problem-Based Learning Curriculum Use of Reflective Journals to Foster Your Skills PART III Assessment in Problem-Based Learning 10. Assessment Overview Aims of Assessment Formative versus Summative Assessment Tools Used in Assessment in Problem-Based Learning Courses 11. Passing Examinations in a Problem-Based Learning Course Introduction Revision before Examinations Common Mistakes in the Way Students Answers Written Examinations Tips for Success PART IV Becoming a Medical/Health Professional Student: Keys for Success 12. Success Is a Journey Introduction Success is Not a Destination Believing In Your Abilities to Succeed Turning Your Dreams into Reality 13. Attitudes That Foster Your Success Get Rid of Your Pride Cultivate Constructive Discontent Escape from Habits Sow Seeds that Benefit Others 14. Growth is a Change Concentrate on One Goal at a Time Concentrate on Continual Improvement Learn How to Deal With Stress APPENDIX A. Examples of a PBL Case APPENDIX B. Examples of Mechanisms APPENDIX C. Examples of PBL Questions