Integration of a Problem-based Learning Module into a Post-graduate Pain Medicine Education Program

Objective: To examine the outcome of substituting a traditional “lecture series” structure with a postgraduate Problem Based Learning (PBL) structure in the context of a pain medicine educational program. The primary outcome is to assess trainee satisfaction, the PBL experience and whether PBL was useful for exam preparation.

Methods: A non-randomized prospective study of non-consultant anesthetic trainees (n=25) was undertaken before and after the introduction of a new PBL program in pain medicine. Two learning packages, each of 12 weeks duration, were delivered over the course of 2 academic terms. There were specific improvements in the leadership and the structure of the sessions (including the introduction of a trained facilitator).

Feedback was collected through a self-developed questionnaire, comprising rating items on a five point Likert scale, enquiring about their PBL experience, objective understanding, whether PBL was useful for exam preparation, and its comparison to didactic teaching.

Results: 25 trainees completed both learning packages. A significant improvement in all aspects of the learning experience was reported (average improvement 1.5 fold (range 1.3-2.0) p < 0.05). 60% - 80% of trainees endorsed the new PBL structure. 92% of trainees felt that the overall learning experience with PBL model was good. The proactive role of a facilitator was important (60% of trainees strongly agreeing with this element) and it was the single highest positive aspect of the program.

Conclusion: The implementation of a PBL system into a pain medicine postgraduate program can create a positive learning atmosphere, improve the trainee satisfaction and should enrich the learning experience in the area of pain medicine.