Session Title: The Design and Integration of a Novel Online Problem-Based Learning Resource to Enhance Undergraduate Medical Education

Time & Date: 12:40 P.M. – 1:55 P.M., Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Location: Student Union Building (SUB) Partyroom

Session Description:

Purpose of Study: To bridge the gap between pre-clinical knowledge and the diagnostic approach to common genitourinary conditions, the University of British Columbia (UBC) Department of Urologic Sciences created an online library of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) modules. The cases were published on Diagnosis X server as a collaborative project between UBC and the Molson Medical Informatics Institute and McGill University. Diagnosis X was launched to provide learners from all UBC distributed medical sites with a variety of easily accessible cases.

Methods Used: The cases were written by medical students and reviewed by urology residents and faculty members. Using the comprehensive template of Diagnosis X, the students authored cases that simulate a real life patient encounter. Cases were developed in a pedagogical manner to provide a systematic review of clinical presentations, patient assessment and treatment plans. Cases also had supplemental questions and comprehensive explanations to facilitate critical thinking. Therefore students could access these materials to enhance their learning experience.

Summary of Results: In April 2008, FERGU block (Fluids, Electrolytes, Renal, Genitourinary block) of 1st year medical curriculum (FMED 404) was augmented with 4 PBL online cases as supplemental material. Approximately 35% of the class accessed the cases and 40% reported that the online cases enhanced their understanding of the clinical approaches to common urologic problems.

Conclusions: Our objective is to further integrate Diagnosis X as a supplemental resource in FERGU while we continue to improve and enhance the diversity of the online cases for medical students at all levels. Even though Department of Urologic Sciences was one of the pioneers in expanding Diagnosis X, other Departments including Pediatrics, Family Practice and Psychiatry have already started similar projects. Therefore, integrating and enhancing such study tools can provide an extensive learning resource to medical professionals from all levels.

Conference Stream: Research

Session Format: Poster Presentation

Co-Presenter: Tyler Fraser

Co-Presenter: Cyrus McEachern