[Problem based learning in the teaching of physics to medical students. Comparison with traditional teaching].
BACKGROUND
Problem based learning, integrating basic science with clinical problems, is one of the most recommended forms of teaching for medical schools.


OBJECTIVE
To compare a problem based learning program for physics with traditional teaching methods.


METHODS
In the physics course, first year medical students were separated in groups with traditional learning and problem based teaching. Both groups were subjected to the same knowledge and qualitative evaluations.


RESULTS
At the end of the course, cognitive performance in both groups was similar (60.8 and 61.3% among traditional teaching and problem based learning groups respectively). However, students assigned to the problem based learning group evaluated significantly better the teaching methodology and process.


CONCLUSIONS
Physics education, using problem based learning, obtains the same cognitive results but a higher degree of satisfaction than traditional teaching among students.
Fasce
E
E
Departamento de Educación Médica, Departamento de Fisica, Facultades de Medicina y Ciencias Físicas y Matemáticas, Universidad de Concepción. efasce@udec.cl
Calderón
M
M
Braga
L
L
De Orúe
M
M
Mayer
H
H
Wagemann
H
H
Cid
S
S
D003479:Curriculum; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D010825:Physics / Q000193:education*; D018794:Problem-Based Learning / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D015397:Program Evaluation; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods*