An online evaluation of problem-based learning (PBL) in Chung Shan Medical University, Taiwan - a pilot study.
BACKGROUND
Problem-based learning (PBL) embraces principles of good learning and teaching. It is student-directed, fosters intrinsic motivation, promotes active learning, encourages peer teaching, involves timely feedback, and can support student self and peer assessment. The most important function of the assessment process is to enhance student learning, to improve the curriculum and to improve teaching.


METHODS
To improve the PBL tutorial in Chung Shan Medical University, we developed an online evaluation system containing the evaluation forms for students, tutor, self and peer. The Cronbach alpha reliability coefficients were 0.9480, 0.9103, and 0.9198 for the Student, Tutor and Self and Peer Evaluation Form, respectively. The online evaluations were mandatory to both students and tutors, and the information was completely anonymous.


CONCLUSIONS
The survey response rates of the online evaluations ranged from 95.6% to 100%. The online evaluations provided a documented feedback to the students on their knowledge, skills and attitudes. Correspondingly, tutors too received feedback from students in evaluating their performance on the appropriateness and effectiveness of tutoring the group. Although there was an initial lack of coordination regarding responsibilities and how to use the online system for both students and the Faculty, the system enabled us to look into how effective our PBL course had been, and it provided both process and outcome evaluations. Our strategy for evaluating the success of PBL is only at its initial stage; we are in an ongoing process of collecting outcome data for further analysis which will hopefully provide more constructive information to the PBL curricula.
Chen
Jia-Yuh
JY
Department of Dermatology, Chung Shan Medical University and Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC.
Lee
Meng-Chih
MC
Lee
Hong-Shan
HS
Wang
Yeou-Chih
YC
Lin
Long-Yau
LY
Yang
Jen-Hung
JH
D004501:Education, Medical / Q000592:standards*; D004521:Educational Measurement; D006801:Humans; D009862:Online Systems; D010865:Pilot Projects; D018794:Problem-Based Learning / Q000379:methods*; D013624:Taiwan; D014495:Universities