Application of virtual scenario simulation combined with problem-based learning for paediatric medical students

OBJECTIVES: To examine the application and effects of virtual scenario simulation combined with problem-based learning (PBL) in teaching paediatric medical students. METHODS: Participants were 300 paediatric medical students randomly divided into a study group and control group. Students in the study group were taught using virtual scenario simulation combined with PBL; students in the control group were taught using conventional teaching methods. Academic performance, knowledge of paediatrics, self-evaluation of comprehensive ability and degree of learning satisfaction were evaluated. RESULTS: Students in the study group showed considerably higher academic performance and noticeably higher classroom performance. Paediatric knowledge, comprising initiating communication, collecting information, giving information, understanding the paediatric patient and concluding communication, was higher for students in the study group. The degree of learning satisfaction was higher for students in the study group. CONCLUSION: Virtual scenario simulation combined with PBL can effectively improve students’ academic performance, mastery of paediatric knowledge, comprehensive ability evaluation and learning satisfaction. The broader application of this approach should be explored for medical student education.