Problem-based learning in ophthalmology: a pilot program for curricular renewal.
OBJECTIVE
To gain experience with problem-based learning as a demonstration project in a medical school's curriculum renewal effort and determine if using a single facilitator to circulate among the small groups would yield positive results.


METHODS
We developed 16 cases around 4 ophthalmic problems that were used in 3-hour small-group sessions during the Introduction to Clinical Medicine semester of the second-year curriculum. A single faculty member facilitated the small groups of 4 students each that were created by self-division at each of 5 sessions.


METHODS
A state-supported large Midwestern medical school.


METHODS
All students (N = 75) enrolled in the Introduction to Clinical Medicine course prior to their standard introductory ophthalmology lectures.


METHODS
A 5-item pretest, related to each of that day's clinical problems, was administered at the beginning and again at the end of the session as a posttest. A satisfaction questionnaire with Likert-type questions was also completed by the students at the close of the session.


RESULTS
Knowledge scores showed statistically significant gains with a mean of 1.7 points. Student satisfaction was very positive--85% stated that they learned more than they would have in the traditional format and 93% agreed that they enjoyed the problem-based learning format.


CONCLUSIONS
A single facilitator successfully managed small groups of students in a modified problem-based learning format that produced significant knowledge gains and high student satisfaction. This positive experience was one of the factors that led to adoption of problem-based learning into the curriculum.
Farrell
T A
TA
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison 53705, USA.
Albanese
M A
MA
Pomrehn
P R
PR
D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate / Q000379:methods*; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D008297:Male; D009885:Ophthalmology / Q000193:education*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D018794:Problem-Based Learning / Q000379:methods*; D013337:Students, Medical; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods