title: Problem-based learning: where are we now? Guide supplement 36.3--Practical Application.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Problem-based learning (PBL) is a well used educational strategy, more frequently used in the pre-clinical phase rather than the clinical phase of medical student learning. This practical application explores its use in a Family Medicine undergraduate clerkship.
  
  
  METHODS
  The PBL application is described during a 10- week rotation in Family Medicine for final year medical students. 217 students were asked to rank 24 statements describing their PBL experience on a five-point Likert scale. The grading was supplemented by one qualitative question. The clinical tutors were asked to write an evaluation statement on their experience.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The educational process was rated highly by students and faculty as a valuable learning methodology that enhanced their knowledge and understanding of patient problems, providing them with a more holistic approach to care.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  It would appear that PBL is infrequently used during clinical learning and specifically not in a Family Medicine clerkship. This small study supports its value to both student and faculty.
authors.affiliation: Department of Family and Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. ndsulaiman1@gmail.com
authors.forename: Nabil
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Sulaiman
authors.forename: Hossam
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Hamdy
mesh_terms: D002982:Clinical Clerkship / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005194:Family Practice / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D018794:Problem-Based Learning / Q000458:organization & administration*