Team-based Learning versus Problem-based Learning among First-year Medical Students in Biochemistry: A Quasi-experimental Study

Abstract

Introduction: Team-based Learning (TBL) and Problem-based Learning (PBL), both active teaching methodologies, are known for improving problem-solving abilities, clinical reasoning, and motivating students for self-directed studies. Although both active methods, TBL and PBL, differ in methodology and required resources, it is always a challenge to choose active methods that are more feasible and effective in the undergraduate medical curriculum. Aim: To compare two active teaching strategies, viz., the effectiveness of TBL vs. PBL in first-year Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) students in terms of learning outcomes, development of critical thinking skills, and retention of knowledge. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted at Department of Biochemistry, NKP Salve Medical College and RC Nagpur, Maharashtra, India from August 2017 to October 2017. A total of 150 first-year MBBS students were included in the study. TBL and PBL were performed following the protocols of their respective methodologies, and scores for learning gain and critical thinking were compared between the TBL and PBL groups. Student perception regarding the procedures was collected using a prevalidated structured questionnaire. The retention of knowledge was assessed by comparing scores from a pretest and a test conducted two months later. Data were statistically analysed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: In the present study, the mean age of the participating students was 20±2 years. Post-test results, obtained just after the intervention, demonstrated a significant learning gain in students using both methods, with a statistically higher gain in TBL (p-value <0.0001) compared to PBL. PBL was appreciated for providing freedom of learning style and facilitator guidance during discussions. Critical thinking skills improved more in PBL, particularly in terms of drawing inferences and interpretations (p-value <0.001). However, no statistically significant differences were found in knowledge retention when the test was conducted two months later in both groups. Conclusion: Learning gain was higher with TBL compared to PBL, with no difference in knowledge retention and the effect on different parameters of critical thinking skills. Students found TBL to be more beneficial for the undergraduate curriculum.