Perception of year 1 and year 2 medical students on problem base learning (PBL) in FMHS, UNIMAS

The Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, adopts Problem Based Learning (PBL) and lectures as the hybrid teaching-learning method in its medical curriculum. This study was carried out to investigate the perception of medical students on PBL in FMHS, UNIMAS. Methods: A questionnaire-based survey was conducted on 165 students of Year 1 and Year 2 medical students (Cohort 2009 and 2010) to explore their perception on PBL. The students' perceptions on PBL were categorized into 4 themes:problem solving and self-directed learning aspects, collaborating as a group, the usage of learning resources, and the role of the facilitators. The factors affecting students' learning and performance in PBL, and the disadvantages of PBL as perceived by the students were also explored by open-ended questions. Results: Most students have a good perception and positive attitude towards PBL and most of them agreed that PBL enhance their collaborative learning and team work skills. Conclusion: PBL was perceived as a beneficial learning method by the first and second year medical students as it enhances teamwork and communication skills