Does team-based learning affect test scores of the basic medical sciences students in a modular curriculum?

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness of team-based learning (TBL) sessions as a learning tool and to assess the satisfaction level of medical students towards TBL in modular curriculum. METHODS: Using the quasi-experimental study design, TBL sessions were conducted, involving students of 1(st) and 2(nd) year of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. The TBL infrastructure comprised of pre-class preparation, in-class individual readiness assurance pre-test and post-test, before and after group discussion, respectively. The responses of the students regarding TBL satisfaction were recorded through a structured questionnaire (5-point Likert-type scale) while Wilcoxon signed rank test was applied to measure the effectiveness of TBL sessions. RESULTS: Out of 192 students, 85% agreed or strongly agreed that TBL helped them think critically, identify their knowledge gaps, boosted their confidence, and motivated them in group participation. Significantly better post-test scores were found in all modules where TBL was used as a teaching tool (Z range = -5.33 to -11.81, P < 0.00). CONCLUSION: TBL increases the post-test score in majority of the students, indicating improved learning process. It not only keeps students engaged throughout the learning process but incites critical thinking, problem solving skills, and confidence. Further studies are required to see long-term benefit of TBL in students’ learning.