Learning based on clinical cases in the teaching of genetics for medicine

Abstract

Introduction:

The pressing need to train autonomous and proactive professionals demands new ways of mediating content. In this context, the use of active teaching and learning methods can improve the profile of the new professional. Case-Based Learning (CBL) is a strategy based on the student’s ability to relate theory and practice, with autonomy and decision-making. The discipline of Genetics addresses contents that may seem distant from everyday life and future professional practice, so it is necessary to use teaching strategies that facilitate the understanding of the application of this knowledge in medical practice.

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the CBL as a pedagogical approach in the teaching-learning process of Genetics for Medicine courses in a public institution.

Methods:

An active methodology protocol that consisted of nine clinical cases was applied to 46 medical students from Universidade de Brasília, who were later divided into nine groups. The performance and perceptions regarding the methodology were evaluated by questionnaires. Quantitative results were analyzed using Student’s t test.

Results:

The performance of group work was statistically higher in 8 of 9 cases compared to individual work. Most students considered the activity good or very good (76%), but approximately half reported no increase in motivation. Moreover, 71.4% felt motivated to learn more about the subject after class and 20% considered they were able to teach the subject to others and 42% assessed they would get all or most of the questions correct if they were submitted to a new assessment. Regarding teamwork, 38% reported feeling more motivated. Finally, 86% considered the discussion of clinical cases relevant or very relevant for professional training.

Final considerations:

The results show, in general, success in the use of CBL on the study of genetic diseases but point out that there are difficulties in the use of alternative teaching methods to the lecture. Despite this, it is clear that learning based on clinical cases can lead to the mobilization of previous knowledge in situations of professional practice.

Keywords:
Medical genetics; medical education; active learning