Phases and Steps in Team-Based Learning: Clearly Outlined Activities at Each Stage for Easy Adoption

Student involvement is crucial for meaningful learning and improved performance in higher education. Over the past 40 years, several instructional methods, including problem-based learning (PBL) and case-based learning (CBL), have been implemented in medical education with varying degrees of success. Increasing evidence suggests that team-based learning (TBL) is an effective and practical approach to incorporating interactive, small-group teaching while fostering enthusiasm for learning. TBL incorporates various theories of adult learning, including lifelong and self-directed learning. The concept of TBL focuses on learning, defined by pre-class preparation and subsequent in-class team discussion. Faculty organizes the learning material to enable students to accept ownership of their own and their peers’ learning. This results in groups that function as powerful learning teams. TBL is based on individual accountability and ensures rigorous team interaction. This accomplishes both competence (what individuals know or can do in terms of knowledge, skills, and attitude) and capability (the extent to which individuals can adapt to generate new knowledge and continue to improve performance).