gms | German Medical Science

Background: Problem-based Learning (PBL) is a constructivist learning method used worldwide at universities and in vocational education and training. PBL promotes independent, research-based learning and supports the acquisition of problem-solving and decision-making competence [1]. Students are required to take a high degree of personal responsibility in learning and organising [2]. The University of Applied Sciences in Bochum (Germany) implemented PBL in the midwifery-specific modules in 2016. The module “Physiology in Pregnancy, Birth and Postnatal Period” in the first and second semesters now contains 20 PBL cases for the subjects.

Aim/Research Question: An evaluation of the PBL method and the question of how students assess their own social and self-directed learning process and their practical acquisition of competences was sought.

Methods: Midwifery students (n=53) were asked to fill out a questionnaire at the end of the first and second semester. The questionnaire contained general questions on organisation and time expenditure as well as on social group processes, communication and method competence and knowledge acquisition.

Results: The students rated PBL as valuable, but also challenging. They noticed their responsibility in self-contained learning and the potential difficulties. The students reported being particularly anxious at the beginning of their programme about their learning. They were very insecure about what was expected from them by their lecturer. They felt that their practical acquisition of competences depended upon the participation and motivation of the other group members.

Relevance: The PBL method is generally well accepted by students and develops effective communication skills, teamwork and problem solving skills. Careful preparation at all levels is important for a self-responsible learning style.

Recommendations/Conclusion: Students are likely to need clear guidance and feedback on their progress in the early stages of the curriculum to monitor progress and provide confidence.

Longer-term research is needed to assess the impact of PBL on theory-practice links and on midwives as practitioners.

Ethics and conflicts of interest: No vote on ethics was obtained. The research was financed by own resources. There are no conflicts of interest.