title: Problem-based learning: perspectives for otolaryngology--head and neck surgery.
abstract: The concept of problem-based learning (PBL) is sweeping through many schools of medicine in North America. Medical curricula are undergoing significant changes to reflect this learning philosophy. This paper analyzes the rationale behind this approach with emphasis on its impact on the teaching of otolaryngology--head and neck surgery in both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The "new pathway" curriculum of Harvard Medical School forms the basis for discussion. The University of Ottawa's new "Curriculum 2000" inaugurated in September 1992 is presented. An open-minded approach to the dramatic changes may reap unexpected benefits for the "orphan specialties" including our own.
authors.affiliation: National Defence Medical Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
authors.forename: E O
authors.initials: EO
authors.lastname: Pelausa
authors.forename: J G
authors.initials: JG
authors.lastname: Marsan
mesh_terms: D003479:Curriculum; D004501:Education, Medical; D004521:Educational Measurement; D013502:General Surgery / Q000193:education; D010036:Otolaryngology / Q000193:education*; D011340:Problem Solving; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods*; D014481:United States