Abstract

Both real-life problems and resolution efforts are widely seen as the natural early steps in the learning processes in humans and, therefore, the problem-based learning (PBL) strategy is considered as a more powerful teaching method in Biomedicine. Recent biomedical/medical educational systems incorporate teaching methods, including PBL, which support students’ learning by improving their critical thinking, practical skills, knowledge achievement, and continued professional learning. PBL is a self-directed learning and educational approach facilitating the development of learning abilities and skills that are essential for biomedical/medical students, hence there are increasing interest by biomedical and medical schools in developing and adopting PBL approach. The goal of this article is to compare the benefits and limitations of PBL vs. non-PBL approach within biomedical/medical education, describe recent update and improvement of PBL strategy such as hyprid-PBL curriculum and team-based learning method, and review assessment methods for PBL and non-PBL approaches in biomedical/medical education.

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