Problem based learning in ophthalmology on medical students

Mehdi Nili-Ahmadabadi

Purpose: to evaluate the effect of problem based learning(PBL) in ophthalmology on medical students.

Methods: Sixteen medical students participated in this study. The questions were based on eye examination skills and assess elementary fundus photography, fluorescein angiography and treatment modalities in patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR). The questions were administered to the students at the beginning and end of class to measure the impact of PBL on their DR knowledge . Agreement of students with these methods also were assessed.

Results: PBL was effective on improvement of DR knowledge of medical students. There was significant increase in test score after class. The mean pretest was 31.5% compared with 97% on posttest. 82.2% of students agreed or strongly agreed that PBL improved their knowledge and skills diabetic retinopathy. on diagnosis and treatment of patients with

Conclusion: PBL is an effective method to improve ophthalmic knowledge and eye examination of medical students.