title: An initial evaluation of learning units to facilitate problem solving and self-directed study (portable patient problem pack).
abstract: This paper describes the initial evaluation of the portable patient problem pack, a learning unit designed to facilitate the development of problem-solving skills and stimulate self study. A cross-over design using two neurological patient problems, each presented in two formats (simulated patient and P4), was used with a sample of twenty-nine volunteer nursing and medical students. The results indicate that the P4 appears to be feasible and effective in stimulating problem solving and self-directed study. The suggested concurrent validity, low cost of production, and implementation make it a potentially potent tool for evaluation.
mesh_terms: D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate; D004508:Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D009462:Neurology / Q000193:education; D011340:Problem Solving; D012647:Self-Assessment; D013664:Teaching Materials