TY - JOUR
T1 - The implementation of problem-based learning in health service management training programs Experience from Lithuanian University of Health Sciences
AU - Stankunas, Mindaugas
AU - Czabanowska, Katarzyna
AU - Avery, Mark
AU - Kalediene, Ramune
AU - Babich, Suzanne Marie
PY - 2016
Y1 - 2016
N2 - Purpose - Strengthening management capacity within the health care sector could have a significant impact on population health. However, many training programs in this area are still delivered using a classic lecture-based approach. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate and better understand the feasibility of using a problem-based learning (PBL) approach in health services management training programs. Design/methodology/approach - A PBL teaching approach (based on the Maastricht University model) was tested with second-year postgraduate students from the Master in Public Health Management program at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Students' opinions about PBL were investigated using a questionnaire with eight open-ended questions. Thematic content analysis was chosen to reflect the search for patterns across the data. Findings - Respondents stated that the main advantage of PBL was that it was a more interesting and effective way of learning: "It is easier to remember, when you study by yourself and discuss with all peers". In addition, it was mentioned that PBL initiated a rapid exchange of ideas and sharing of personal experience. Students stressed that PBL was a good tool for developing other skills as well, such as "public speaking, communication, logic thinking". All students recommended delivering all other courses in the health services management program using PBL methodologies. Originality/value - Findings from our study suggest that PBL may be an effective approach to teaching health services management. Potential problems in implementation are noted.
AB - Purpose - Strengthening management capacity within the health care sector could have a significant impact on population health. However, many training programs in this area are still delivered using a classic lecture-based approach. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate and better understand the feasibility of using a problem-based learning (PBL) approach in health services management training programs. Design/methodology/approach - A PBL teaching approach (based on the Maastricht University model) was tested with second-year postgraduate students from the Master in Public Health Management program at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Students' opinions about PBL were investigated using a questionnaire with eight open-ended questions. Thematic content analysis was chosen to reflect the search for patterns across the data. Findings - Respondents stated that the main advantage of PBL was that it was a more interesting and effective way of learning: "It is easier to remember, when you study by yourself and discuss with all peers". In addition, it was mentioned that PBL initiated a rapid exchange of ideas and sharing of personal experience. Students stressed that PBL was a good tool for developing other skills as well, such as "public speaking, communication, logic thinking". All students recommended delivering all other courses in the health services management program using PBL methodologies. Originality/value - Findings from our study suggest that PBL may be an effective approach to teaching health services management. Potential problems in implementation are noted.
KW - Public health
KW - Human resource management
KW - Learning
KW - Education
KW - Health services
KW - Health education
KW - Capacity development
KW - Problem-based learning
KW - Health services management
U2 - 10.1108/LHS-04-2015-0010
DO - 10.1108/LHS-04-2015-0010
M3 - Article
C2 - 27707149
SN - 1751-1879
VL - 29
SP - 392
EP - 401
JO - Leadership in Health Services
JF - Leadership in Health Services
IS - 4
ER -