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NSW Public Health Bulletin archive

Problem-based learning in public health workforce training: a discussion of educational principles and evidence Volume 18 Issue 1-2

Lyndal J. Trevena

New South Wales Public Health Bulletin 18(2) 3–8 https://dx.doi.org/10.1071/NB07007 Published online: 11 May 2007

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Lyndal J. Trevena

Abstract

Problem-based learning (PBL) has been implemented within numerous undergraduate health curricula but less so in workforce training. Public health practice requires many of the skills that PBL aims to develop such as teamwork, self-directed learning and the integration of multiple sources of information within problem solving. This paper summarises the historical development of PBL and the educational principles underpinning it. It hypothesises that the public health workforce would benefit from some exposure to this type of learning and highlights some of the practical issues for its implementation.