Effect of case based learning in understanding clinical biochemistry

Abstract

Introduction : Case based learning (CBL) is an established method which uses a guided enquiry method of learning. It deals with real world problems or situations. It is more structured and facilitators or instructors play a major role in conducting sessions.CBL can play a substantial role in education of first year medical graduate students. We aimed to measure effect of CBL on academic performance of students and also compare it with lecture method and to study the perception of students towards CBL. Methodology : We randomly selected sixty medical students of first year and divided into two batches. One batch was taught by case based learning method and other by routine lecture method. Both the batches were evaluated by pre and post test. The pre and post test scores for both batches and also post CBL and post lecture scores were compared by Studentst test. The students perception was also studied using a five point Likert scale by questionnaire method Results: After CBL method, students had improved scores in evaluation test. The difference between pre and post CBL scores and also post lecture and post CBL scores was statistically significant. Majority of students opined that CBL was useful, interesting and motivating and also better than lecture method in understanding clinical biochemistry topic. Conclusion: Case based learning is a useful method for clinical biochemistry topics and should be used as a regular method at appropriate places in curriculum of biochemistry.