Facilitating Facilitators: Enhancing PBL through a Structured Facilitator Development Program

• Published in: Interdisciplinary Journal of Problem-Based Learning Vol. 9; no. 1; pp. 73 - 82
• Main Authors: Wilhelm, Sheila M, Salinitri, Francine D, Crabtree, Brian L
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Purdue University Press 01-04-2015
• Subjects: Clinical Teaching (Health Professions); College Programs; Constructivism (Learning); Educational Philosophy; Educational Practices; Facilitators (Individuals); Interdisciplinary Approach; Problem Based Learning; Program Descriptions; Program Development; Teacher Certification; Training Methods
• ISSN: 1541-5015; 1541-5015
• DOI: 10.7771/1541-5015.1509

With increasing adoption of the problem-based learning (PBL) model, creative approaches to enhancing facilitator training and optimizing resources to maintain effective learning in small groups is essential. We describe a theoretical framework for the development of a PBL facilitator training program that uses the constructivist approach as the program’s guiding philosophy. The structured, pedagogically sound program was designed for a multidisciplinary pool of basic and social/administrative scientists, clinical faculty, practicing pharmacists, and post-graduate residents enrolled in a teaching certificate program. The training program employs the PBL experience, along with interactive technology, case-based and debriefing sessions with small groups and experienced facilitators. Proposed models for assessment of the facilitator training program include evaluation of inter-rater variability between facilitators with respect to student performance in PBL.