VIDEO CASE PROGRAMS FOR PBL - INTEGRATION OF MICROBIOLOGY AND MEDICINE

Background: The real advantage of problem-based learning (PBL) may not be its status as an alternative to traditional learning, but rather i ts usefulness as an integrative adjunct. Description: To meet the chal lenge of integrating PBL into traditional medical education, we have d eveloped 6 videotaped case presentations. Each video utilizes problem- solving skills and demonstrates role playing within the context of a p hysician-patient relationship. Presuming a basic and clinical science foundation, these presentations are designed for small-group discussio ns. Each videotape comprises a history and physical, differential diag noses, routine laboratory analyses, selection of diagnostic specimen(s ), microbial tests and results, final diagnosis, and clinical highligh ts. Predetermined pauses allow for the student-directed faculty-guided problem-solving approach to diagnosis. The videotape format provides opportunities for adapting to diverse physical settings and flexibilit y of incorporation into the curriculum. Evaluation: Student evaluation s overwhelmingly affirm the positive peer interactions, the small-grou p learning experiences, and clinical relevance and realistic case port rayals. Conclusion: The sessions empowered the students to become acti ve participants in their learning by applying previous knowledge cowar d a clinical approach to diagnosis.