Team Based learning, a Global Teaching Method, an Experience

Team Based learning, a Global Teaching Method

Abstract

Introduction: Team based learning (TBL) is a student centred, active learning strategy designed to support the development of cooperative learning. It facilitates the development of individual accountability, problem solving, communication, teamwork and organizational skills. In TBL, students solve complicated case scenarios based on real life-like situations in a three-phase approach consisting of Preparation phase, Readiness assurance phase and Application phase. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the impact of TBL in promoting active learning by comparing the scores of Individual Readiness Assessment Test (IRAT), a measure of individual student performance and Group Readiness Assessment Test (GRAT), a measure of performance of students in teams. Method: Three TBL sessions based on the essential components proposed by Michaelson were conducted in pathology for second year MBBS students. Result: The median scores of GRAT are higher when compared to IRAT in all the TBL sessions. This difference is statistically significant (P<0.001) which shows that TBL promotes active learning. Conclusion: TBL is an active learning strategy that delegates the students with greater responsibility and provides opportunity for higher level learning. It facilitates the development of individual accountability, problem solving, communication, teamwork and organizational skills. [Shivraj S Natl J Integr Res Med, 2019; 10(3):55-59]