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Team
learning or team-based learning (TBL) is a well-defined instructional
strategy developed by Dr. Larry K. Michaelsen that is now being
used successfully in medical education.
The
TBL method allows a single instructor to teach through
conducting multiple small groups simultaneously in the same classroom.
Learners
must actively participate in and out of class through preparation
and group discussion. Class time is shifted away from learning facts
and toward application and integration of information. The instructor
retains control of content, and acts as both facilitator and content
expert. The team learning method affords the opportunity for assessment
of both individual and team performance.
As
an instructional method, team learning consists of repeating sequences
of 3 phases:
- In
Phase 1, learners study independently outside of class to master
identified objectives.
- In
Phase 2, individual learners complete a multiple-choice exam to
assure their readiness to apply Phase 1 knowledge. Groups of 6-7
learners then re-take this exam and turn in their consensus answers
for immediate scoring and posting.
- In
Phase 3, which may last several class periods, groups complete
in-class assignments that promote collaboration, use of Phase
1 and 2 knowledge, and identification of learning deficiencies.
At designated times, all groups simultaneously share their groups'
answers with the entire class for easy comparison and immediate
feedback. This stimulates an energetic total-class discussion
with groups defending their answers and the teacher helping to
consolidate learning.
TBL stresses the importance of a priori, out-of-class learning
based on clear learning objectives. It emphasizes the importance
of holding learners accountable for attending class prepared to
participate, and provides guidelines for designing group learning
tasks to maximize participation.
TBL emphasizes three keys to effective active learning:
-
Individual and group accountability
-
Need and opportunity for group interaction
- Motivation
to engage in give-and-take discussion. In medical education,
team learning has been successfully used in preclinical, clinical,
residency, fellowship, and CME venues and in interdisciplinary
settings.
More
detailed information and resources on team learning can be obtained
at: www.bcm.tmc.edu/fac-ed/team_learning.
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