Problem Based Learning (PBL) in Medical Education: What is PBL, how and why does it work?

PBL is a case/problem-driven, active learning program where knowledge, skills, team-work and professionalism are instilled in our students to become skilled in osteopathic medical care very early in their training. This is accomplished through: (1) discovery and learning the breadth/depth of fundamental sciences and foundations of health and diseases; (2) small-group interaction; (3) picking their own test topics, and (4) using PBL exams, standardized (National Board of Medical Examiners Comprehensive Basic Science Examination (NBME)) and other diagnostic exams to measure outcomes.