MSU Department of Medicine - Problem Based Learning

Problem-based learning (PBL) stems from the principle that learning occurs best when it is aimed at solving a problem. In Block II, students working in small groups are given a paper case describing a person with an illness. This case is the "problem" and the group’s goal is to explain what is causing the patient’s symptoms. Following their initial review and discussion of the person and her or his symptoms, the students determine what topics they need to study in greater depth to fully understand what is happening to the patient. The students then study independently and later reconvene to discuss what they have learned and how it applies to the current patient. Their discussion of the case can now proceed with greater understanding.

During Block II, students learn all of their advanced behavioral and basic science using the PBL format. The PBL cases each include content from several different disciplines which the students learn to integrate and apply as their depth of understanding increases. In addition, PBL is based on more independent, integrated, and case-based learning, and is more dependent on the small group activity than is Block I. All of this makes PBL a new and challenging learning experience for students–one that is exciting and rewarding.

The Department of Medicine has substantial responsibility in the leadership and teaching of Problem Based Learning (PBL) courses that are taught to second year medical students. Each PBL course, or domain, is the responsibility of a Curriculum Development Group (CDG) of between four and six faculty members from varying disciplines. The leadership of the CDG is the responsibility of one faculty member. The CDG chair is ultimately responsible for all aspects of the course. There are 10 PBL domains taught annually and current members of the Department are the CDG chairs for many.

In addition to being CDG Chairs, faculty from the Department of Medicine are members of the PBL Curriculum Development Group. As CDG members they are expected to participate in any and all of the following activities:

Attending CDG meetings
Developing learning goals and objectives for the domain
Developing new cases and modifying or eliminating old ones
Finding and reviewing new readings or on line learning resources
Creating preceptor guides
Organizing the laboratory experience of the students
Creating exam questions, previewing the exam, and reviewing appeals

Finally, many Department faculty are group leaders and teach PBL. This course brings experienced clinicians together with pre-clinical medical students.