title: Conducting the symphony: a qualitative study of facilitation in problem-based learning tutorials.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Tutors in problem-based learning (PBL) tutorials have a complex role to play in facilitating students' learning. This includes providing support for students' acquisition of content knowledge and skills in critical thinking, coaching of group processes and modelling of reflective practice. Few studies which investigate the key role of tutors in the PBL tutorial process are qualitative in design.
  
  
  METHODS
  This study explores the nature and technique of facilitation provided by PBL tutors from the students' viewpoint. Data were obtained from written responses to an open-ended question asking students about the effectiveness of their PBL tutor(s) and from in-depth interviews carried out with two randomly selected students.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Three main themes arose from the inductive analysis of qualitative data: (i) role confusion by tutors; (ii) tutor management of sensitive issues, and (iii) facilitation 'style'. The theme of tutors' facilitation style was dominant and three sub-categories were apparent. These were: (i) managing the learning in PBL tutorials; (ii) facilitating group processes, and (iii) guiding group discussion.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Findings highlight the need for tutors to regularly review the PBL tutorial processes and group dynamics within the tutorial setting. These findings have implications for tutor training and programmes of ongoing professional development for PBL facilitators.
authors.affiliation: Discipline of Medical Education, School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. t.papinczak@uq.edu.au
authors.forename: Tracey
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Papinczak
authors.forename: Terry
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Tunny
authors.forename: Louise
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Young