Teaching with problem-based medical cases: theoretical and practical foundation for case facilitators

Aalborg University, Doctoral School in Medicine, Biomedical Science and Technology

Case facilitation with problem-based learning (PBL) is the central teaching model at Aalborg University Medicine and Medicine with industrial specialization (MedIS). The aim of problem-based case work is to facilitate learning in ways that mirror professional practice. This has several advantages, including highlighting the applicability of the material being taught and facilitates active learning, which increases student motivation, engagement, and the final learning outcome.

A feature of problem-based case work is the use of problem triggers placed in a context, e.g. a medical phenomenon. Small groups of students work on the case together: 1) They analyze the problem, 2) identify learning issues for developing an adequate explanation for the phenomenon, 3) follow up with research, and 4) prepare the explanations. When required, they would also determine the course of treatment, action or solution that best address the phenomenon. Focus is on analyzing complex situations with limited information using acquired knowledge and deduction, and learning to understand causalities of biological systems, i.e. the link between symptoms, biological mechanism, clinical outcomes, and applied treatments.

In this way, the students train logical thinking, are informed of the relevance of the topics yielding higher engagement and learning, help associate the new knowledge to previously acquired, and come into the mindset of a professional presented with a context to deal with. (Barrows & Tamblyn, 1980)

For additional information, updates, and registration, please refer to AAU PhDMoodle via the link provided on the right side of this page.

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