Implementation of problem-based learning (pbl) methodology in speech therapy degree

Problem-based learning (PBL) is a student-centered teaching method in which students learn about a subject solving an open-ended problem, based on analysis, resolution and discussion in groups. The aim of this study is to obtain a descriptive analysis of the implementation of the PBL methodology in the course Neurophysiological Bases of Behaviour, in which fourth-year undergraduate students of Speech Therapy Degree were enrolled in the academic years 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23 at the University of Malaga. Thus, 139 students were included, who answered two surveys, which included the same items (Likert scale questions and personal opinion question), at both the beginning (to know students’ expectations) and the end (to measure the level of satisfaction) of the course. The surveys allowed, on one hand, to analyse the students' assessment on different issues related to the technical and methodological aspects of PBL, their participation, group work and personal skills acquisition. On the other hand, we studied whether the students contemplated significant differences between PLB methodology and other traditional teaching methods, regarding the development of abilities and competencies. The results of the initial survey showed a very positive attitude of the students towards the implementation of PBL methodology in all the academic years. Compared to this, in the final survey, the scores obtained in the items regarding the skills and competencies acquired were similar or even better. Among the conclusions, it is worth highlighting the higher effectiveness of PBL for students to acquire competences compared to other traditional teaching methodologies. The study was funded by Servicio de Formación e Innovación (UMA), convocatoria INNOVA22, PIE22-179 (Implementación de la metodología del aprendizaje basado en problemas en ciencias de la salud: un estudio interdisciplinar), Málaga, Spain. Declaration of Interest Statement: None