Problem-based learning(PBL) is widely used as an effective educational tool; the fields in which it has been applied include medicine. Several reports have described the results of trials comparing problem-based and conve ntional approaches to learning; none, however, have compared the results between two groups where one had not undergone medical training, and the other had been partially trained, using the conventional approach. The aim of this study was to determine whether there was any difference in medical performance between two groups, as described above. Before the possible incorporation of PBL into our curriculum, we also wished to investigate many possible problems. Group A consisted of five premedical school students and group B of six students in the first year of medical school at our college. The same case which had been used in the tutor training program in the University of New Mexico School of Medicine was used by the same tutor who attended that program, and the whole procedure was evaluated by other faculty members through closed-circuit TV monitor. We also analyzed the results of evaluation by the tutors and students themselves. The general performance of the students was excellent, while the performance of the tutors were acceptable. Many possible problems, including library facilities and educational environments were also discussed. In conclusion, PBL is an approach which can be used in our medical college from an early stage. Before it is fully introduced, however the large number of potential problems should be carefully evaluated.
