Student Perception of Active Learning Group in a Problem-Based Learning Curricular Environment

The “Active Learning Group” (ALG) described in this paper is a hybrid form of problem-based learning established at the Cooper Medical School of Rowan University 5 years ago. The present study relates to an overall effort to ensure continuous quality improvement in the undergraduate medical education curriculum. As part of the course evaluation, the Office of Medical Education uses a survey instrument to collect student opinions about the ALG format and process. The survey instrument focuses on three domains: (1) professionalism; (2) positive learning experience; and (3) partnership in learning (collaboration). Ninety-five percent of the students value professionalism highly, especially teamwork. The survey results and student evaluations of the cases and facilitators allow us to identify and address deficits in the ALG process as a whole, paying special attention to the quality of the cases and facilitator contributions. In the future, items that elucidate student reflective practice will be included in the survey instrument.