Objective To systematically review the effects of problem-based learning (PBL) versus lecture-based learning (LBL) teaching models on students in surgery education in China. Methods Such databases as CNKI, WanFang Data and PubMed were electronically searched for literature on PBL versus LBL applied in surgery education in China up to June 30th, 2013. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we screened literature, extracted data, and assessed the methodological quality of included studies. Then meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.2 software. Results Sixteen studies were included totally, all of which were low in quality. Compared with LBL, PBL was superior in surgery comprehensive scores (WMD=4.98, 95%CI 3.88 to 6.09, Plt;0.000 01), fundamental theoretical knowledge (WMD=3.09, 95%CI 0.81 to 5.38, P=0.008), clinical manipulation skills (WMD=4.70, 95%CI 2.69 to 6.71, Plt;0.000 01), and practical ability (WMD=2.13, 95%CI 1.11 to 3.15, Plt;0.000 1) with significant differences. Conclusion PBL teaching method is superior to LBL in surgery education.
Objective To systematically review the teaching effects of problem-based learning (PBL) combined with lecture-based learning (LBL) versus lecture-based learning (LBL) teaching models on students in surgical clinical education in China. Methods Such databases as The Cochrane Library, PubMed, CNKI, WanFang Data and VIP were electronically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on PBL+LBL versus LBL applied in surgery education in China from inception to February 2017. Two reviewers independently screened literature, extracted data and assessed the risk of bias of included studies. Then, meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.2 software. Results Fourteen RCTs including 1 386 students were included. The results of meta-analysis showed, compared with LBL, PBL+LBL were superior in basic knowledge of surgery (MD=3.33, 95%CI 2.07 to 4.60, P<0.000 01), case analysis (MD=5.90, 95%CI 2.61 to 9.19,P=0.000 4), clinical skills (MD=3.38, 95%CI 0.57 to 6.19, P=0.02), comprehensive performance (MD=7.15, 95%CI 3.87 to 10.43, P<0.000 1) and teaching satisfaction (OR=3.05, 95%CI 1.90 to 4.9,P<0.000 01) with significant difference. There was no differences in inquiry/physical examination/medical record between the two groups (MD=0.82, 95%CI 0 to 1.64,P=0.05). Conclusions PBL+LBL teaching method is superior to LBL in surgical clinical education in China. Large-scale and high quality randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the above conclusions.