A Pilot Study for Case-Based Learning Among Undergraduate Students in Global Health

Abstract

In this pilot study, students in a 4th year undergraduate course in Global Health at the University of Ottawa were exposed to Case-Based Learning (CBL) for the first time; and their experiences were assessed via an online survey. Though the response rate was poor (21%), respondents indicated overwhelmingly that the CBL experience was enjoyable, educational and appropriate for the subject. Aside from cost, the major challenge was harmonizing student experiences across the discussion groups, which may be addressed by better leader training. Given its innate opinion-based and interdisciplinary nature, Global Health is an appropriate subject area for the application of CBL to undergraduate teaching, and expansion of this intervention must include a wider selection of cases and greater harmonization of facilitation methods and leader training across groups.