title: Using problem-based learning in public health service based training.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This study explored the suitability and benefits of problem-based learning (PBL) in competency-based postgraduate public health training. The PBL was delivered within a rural retreat and included site visits.
  
  
  METHODS
  Qualitative semistructured interviews with trainee public health officers and key informants.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The learning approach (retreat-PBL combination with site visits) was valuable and relevant. Trainees reported a high learning impact with increased knowledge about the problems examined and rural public health practice. They also expressed an openness to work rurally.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Collaboratively developed and delivered, experiential rural public health PBL provides a positive learning experience for trainees undertaking competency-based training in public health and could play an important workforce role. PBL appears to be suitable in rural and non-rural public health training settings.
authors.affiliation: Broken Hill Centre for Remote Health Research, Broken Hill University, Department of Rural Health, University of Sydney.
authors.forename: Gaynor S
authors.initials: GS
authors.lastname: Heading
authors.forename: Jeffrey D
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Fuller
authors.forename: David M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Lyle
authors.forename: D Lynne
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: Madden
mesh_terms: D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D004500:Education, Graduate / Q000379:methods*; D040381:Education, Public Health Professional; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D009517:New South Wales; D018794:Problem-Based Learning; D011361:Professional Competence; D011634:Public Health / Q000193:education*; D011635:Public Health Administration / Q000193:education*; D012424:Rural Population