Team-based learning is a newer teaching method that offers the opportunity to enhance knowledge with the help of peers. It’s becoming more popular with undergraduate and continuing medical education (CME) providers.
What makes this process unique—and more importantly, how can it benefit you?
What Is Team-Based Learning?
Team-based learning is a form of active education where groups complete activities together. There is generally a specific structure the instructor follows or modifies to fit their needs:
- Individual work
- Teamwork
- Feedback
Unlike traditional teaching methods, like lectures, team-based instruction is student-centered. There are four key characteristics of team-based learning for medical education:
- Group formation
Instructors assign students to diverse teams they should remain in for as long as possible. - Frequent feedback
After group learning activities, you’ll receive comments that help identify knowledge gaps and improve comprehension. - Problem-solving activities
The group works together to find solutions during a clinical problem-solving activity. You’ll learn from one another and enhance your teamwork skills. - Peer evaluation
You may be asked to grade or score your teammates. Peer review can help you hold each other accountable and receive constructive evaluation.
Team-based learning helps you solve problems, practice skills, and receive feedback as a group, which is why it is growing in popularity.
Team-Based Learning Advantages
Besides fostering group problem-solving skills, team instruction offers other evidence-based benefits. Some of those positives include:
Structured education
Team-based learning is more interactive and engaging for many students than traditional lessons.
Small-group instruction
Since you are divided into small teams, there is more room for discussion amongst yourself, other groups, and instructors or experts.
Collaboration skills
By working with your peers, you can learn the importance of collaboration in medical practice.
Professional traits
Many activities, including communication and feedback, apply to actual practice. These can also help you improve your decision-making skills, self-reflection, and responsibility.
One study found that students appreciated small groups, fast feedback, and readiness assurance tests. Evidence also shows that team-based learning may enhance content mastery.
Team-Based CME
How does team-based learning play into CME? Much like in college courses, CME providers can include these education methods in their events. Here are some examples you might see:
Think-pair-share
There will be a few minutes of one-to-one or team discussions on the topic, possibly followed by sharing with the class.
Brainstorming session
You’ll have allotted time to think about as many ideas or solutions as possible, which you can discuss with your group.
Workshops or simulations
Hands-on or interactive demonstrations or simulations completed in a team setting.
Roleplay
Each group member takes on a specific role and interacts with one another as if the situation were real.
Team instruction is possible with both in-person and virtual CME conferences.
Find Your Next Team Learning Experience
Time to refresh your team’s knowledge or learn more about the latest medical breakthroughs? Round up your colleagues for team-based learning with in-person conferences or virtual seminars.