The problem-based learning tutorial laboratory - a method for training medical teachers

An extensive staff development programme was started in 1998 in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Helsinki. A problem-based learning method was introduced as a new style of teaching in the curriculum reform. This p aper describes a reaching method 'Problem-based learning-tutorial laborator y' for training medical teachers to act as tutors and to understand their r oles as facilitators of learning and the dynamics of a small group. The met hod was based on learning cycles: teachers had a possibility to experience tutoring, to get feedback about it from an educational expert and from a pe er teacher and also they were able to reflect on their views in the group. The teachers were content with the training. Sessions improved teacher coop eration across the departments and brought new teaching ideas for shared us e. It also helped to cope with the resistance related to the curriculum cha nge process.