title: The implementation of problem-based learning in health service management training programs.
abstract: Purpose Strengthening management capacity within the health care sector could have a significant impact on population health. However, many training programs in this area are still delivered using a classic lecture-based approach. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate and better understand the feasibility of using a problem-based learning (PBL) approach in health services management training programs. Design/methodology/approach A PBL teaching approach (based on the Maastricht University model) was tested with second-year postgraduate students from the Master in Public Health Management program at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Students' opinions about PBL were investigated using a questionnaire with eight open-ended questions. Thematic content analysis was chosen to reflect the search for patterns across the data. Findings Respondents stated that the main advantage of PBL was that it was a more interesting and effective way of learning: "It is easier to remember, when you study by yourself and discuss with all peers". In addition, it was mentioned that PBL initiated a rapid exchange of ideas and sharing of personal experience. Students stressed that PBL was a good tool for developing other skills as well, such as "public speaking, communication, logic thinking". All students recommended delivering all other courses in the health services management program using PBL methodologies. Originality/value Findings from our study suggest that PBL may be an effective approach to teaching health services management. Potential problems in implementation are noted.
authors.affiliation: Department of Health Management, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences , Kaunas, Lithuania and Health Service Management Department, Health Service Management, School of Medicine, Griffith University , Southport, Australia.
authors.forename: Mindaugas
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Stankunas
authors.affiliation: Department of International Health, CAPHRI, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University , Maastricht, The Netherlands and Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University , Medical College, Krakow, Poland.
authors.forename: Katarzyna
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Czabanowska
authors.affiliation: Health Service Management Department, School of Medicine, Griffith University , Southport, Australia.
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Avery
authors.affiliation: Department of Health Management, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences , Kaunas, Lithuania.
authors.forename: Ramune
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Kalediene
authors.affiliation: Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indiana University , Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
authors.forename: Suzanne Marie
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Babich
mesh_terms: D003695:Delivery of Health Care; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D018794:Problem-Based Learning; D015397:Program Evaluation; D013334:Students; D013850:Thinking
keywords: Capacity development; Education; Health education; Health services; Health services management; Human resource management; Learning; Problem-based learning; Public health