A Quality Assurance Template for Revision of Case Based Learning Modules

Case Based Learning (CBL), a form of small group learning developed from the same educational theories as Problem Based Learning (PBL), is becoming increasingly prevalent in North American medical schools. At University of Ottawa, approximately 20% of scheduled class time is devoted to this pedagogical method. Despite the importance of this method, a review of the literature found that no formal tool has been developed to assess the quality and consistency of these cases. The objective of this project was to develop a tool that would allow a standardised approach to the quality review of CBL cases. We analysed the first five CBL cases in the curriculum and noted the most important features of each one. We then created a checklist template and tested this tool against another 12 CBL cases. By incorporating this tool into the CBL development cycle, one can ensure that all new and revised CBL cases provide a consistent learning experience across the medical curriculum.