Using Computer Technology to Enhance Problem-Based Learning

Abstract

The focus of this paper is on how computer technology can be used to enhance the effectiveness of clinical problems in a problem-based medical curriculum. Visual/audio triggers are being used in the medical course at The University of Melbourne to set the stage for clinical problems by introducing students to a virtual patient, and to some of the circumstances surrounding the hypothetical situation. Digitised photographs, Shockwave movies, digitised video segments or a combination of these media types act as entry portals into the on-line "problems of the week". In designing the triggers our aim was to create authentic images that would "suspend the disbelief" of students and allow them to approach each problem as if it were a real life clinical scenario.