Innovations in Problem-based Learning: What can we Learn from Recent Studies?

This article aims at discussing the six papers included in this special issue on innovations in Problem-based learning (PBL). The papers address different aspects related to the implementation and the development of PBL. This discussion article highlights the relevance of the theme explored by each of the papers, the contributions emerging from the study to what is already known about that topic, and its limitations, particularly those that suggest directions for future research. Emphasis is given to new insights brought by the papers for better understanding tutorial group processes and self-study phase in PBL. The contributions provided by the papers are discussed in the light of pertinent literature and also in relation to their companion articles in this issue when indicated.

[1]  Cees P.M. van der Vleuten,et al.  Testing a Causal Model for Learning in a Problem-based Curriculum , 2001, Advances in health sciences education : theory and practice.

[2]  S. Willis,et al.  Using Clinical Experience in Discussion within Problem-Based Learning Groups , 2006, Advances in health sciences education : theory and practice.

[3]  Sofie M. M. Loyens,et al.  Influence of Learning Resources on Study Time and Achievement Scores in a Problem-based Curriculum , 2006, Advances in health sciences education : theory and practice.

[4]  C. V. D. van der Vleuten,et al.  Problem‐based learning: future challenges for educational practice and research , 2005, Medical education.

[5]  Stanley G. Korenman,et al.  Innovation in Medical Education: An Evaluation of Its Present Status , 1991 .

[6]  G R Norman,et al.  Effectiveness of problem‐based learning curricula: theory, practice and paper darts , 2000, Medical education.

[7]  H. Schmidt,et al.  The psychological basis of problem‐based learning: a review of the evidence , 1992, Academic medicine : journal of the Association of American Medical Colleges.

[8]  Price,et al.  A conceptual framework to guide the development of self‐directed, lifelong learning in problem‐based medical curricula , 2000, Medical education.

[9]  Exploration of a method to analyze group interactions in problem-based learning , 2004, Medical teacher.

[10]  Mien Segers,et al.  Students’ Perceptions of a Problem-Based Learning Environment , 2005 .

[11]  M. Segers,et al.  Effects of problem-based learning: a meta- analysis , 2003 .

[12]  G. Norman.  Research in clinical reasoning: past history and current trends , 2005, Medical education.

[13]  D. Dolmans.  The effectiveness of PBL: the debate continues. Some concerns about the BEME movement , 2003, Medical education.

[14]  Sofie M. M. Loyens,et al.  Students' Conceptions of Constructivist Learning: A Comparison between a Traditional and a Problem-based Learning Curriculum , 2006, Advances in health sciences education : theory and practice.

[15]  G. Norman.  RCT = results confounded and trivial: the perils of grand educational experiments , 2003, Medical education.

[16]  K. Eva.  What every teacher needs to know about clinical reasoning , 2005, Medical education.

[17]  Arno M. M. Muijtjens,et al.  Impact of Individual Study on Tutorial Group Discussion , 1999 .

[18]  D H Dolmans,et al.  Solving problems with group work in problem‐based learning: hold on to the philosophy , 2001, Medical education.

[19]  Remy M. J. P. Rikers,et al.  Do student-defined learning issues increase quality and quantity of individual study? , 2006, Advances in health sciences education : theory and practice.

[20]  Wim H. Gijselaers,et al.  Development and Evaluation of a Causal Model of Problem-Based Learning , 1990 .

[21]  J. Colliver.  Effectiveness of Problem‐based Learning Curricula: Research and Theory , 2000, Academic medicine : journal of the Association of American Medical Colleges.

[22]  M. Albanese,et al.  Problem‐based Learning: A Review of Literature on Its Outcomes and Implementation Issues , 1993, Academic medicine : journal of the Association of American Medical Colleges.

[23]  Mark Newman,et al.  A Pilot Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effectiveness of Problem Based Learning. , 2003 .

[24]  G. Norman,et al.  The effectiveness of PBL: the debate continues. Is meta‐analysis helpful? , 2003, Medical education.

[25]  Alison Jones,et al.  A Model of How Students Link Problem‐based Learning with Clinical Experience through “Elaboration” , 2002, Academic medicine : journal of the Association of American Medical Colleges.

[26]  C. Hmelo‐Silver.  Problem-Based Learning: What and How Do Students Learn? , 2004 .

[27]  Diana H J M Dolmans,et al.  What Do We Know About Cognitive and Motivational Effects of Small Group Tutorials in Problem-Based Learning? , 2006, Advances in health sciences education : theory and practice.