Application of problem based learning in clinical internship in department of gastroenterology

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of applying problem based learning (PBL) combined with traditional teaching in clinical internship in department of gastroenterology.Methods Totally 60 full-time medical undergraduates of clinical medicine in clinical internship in department of gastroenterology of the Second Hospital of Baoding were randomly divided into PBL group (n=30) and traditional group (n=30).Practical effect of the different modes was evaluated by questionnaire and examination resuits.Data were analyzed by SPSS 15.0.Enumeration data were compared between groups using x2 test and measurement data were manifested (x-) ± s with P ＜ 0.05 signifying significant difference.Results PBL group was superior to traditional group in comprehensive analysis capabilities,motivation to learn and learning outcomes with statistically significant differences between the two groups (P values were 0.001,0.007 and 0.005).Concerning stimulating students' interest and satisfaction of the teaching mode,the difference between the two groups was not statistically significant (P ＞ 0.05).PBL group was superior to traditional group in the pre-class preparation,full and accurate expression of views in classroom and clinical logic,with statistically significant differences between the two groups (P values were 0.002,0.000 and 0.002).There was no difference in communicative abilities with patients between the two groups (P=0.118).PBL group had higher scores than traditional group in the quiz,case analysis and overall performance,with statistically significant differences between the two groups (P values were 0.005,0.045 and 0.013).Concerning score of glossary and multiple-choice questions,differences between two group were not statistically significant (P＞0.05).Conclusions PBL combined with traditional teaching method is suitable for internship teaching in the department of gastroenterology for full-time undergraduates of clinical medicine.PBL can improve students' clinical comprehensive analysis capabilities and helps to develop the ability to take the initiative to solve practical problems. Key words: Problem-based learning; Medical education; Clinical internship