Introduction of case based learning as a teaching tool in clinical microbiology for 2nd year mbbs student in medical college of south west bihar india

Background: The teaching of microbiology is mainly through conventional methods and its clinical application islacking amongmedical practitioner, so active learning is required to facilitate student's learning. Case-based learning (CBL) is one such method of active learning where it helps to enhance knowledge and clinical applications of Microbiology in routine practice. Aim: To introduce case base learning as teaching learning methods in Clinical Microbiology for undergraduates. Methodology: Educational Intervention Study was conducted for 2nd phase MBBS student at Narayan Medical College Hospital, Jamuhar Sasaram Bihar. A total of 83 participants were involved, of which two groups were created. The project was carried out after sensitizing the faculty with CBL. The 1st group was subjected to a CBL and 2nd group was subjected to didactic lecture and crossover done. Pre and Post-test were conducted and the perception of student as well as of faculty were noted and analyzed. Results: CBL was appreciated by students as well as teachers. Perceptions from students and teachers were taken on Likert’s scale ranging from strongly disagrees to strongly agree. Around 76.8 % of student stated that in CBL we interact more with teachers, followed by 65.9% student stated that CBL has helped me in retention of subject and its clinical application and 62.2% of student perceive that CBL has motivatedfor self- study in comparison to Didactic Lecture. Conclusions: CBL in Microbiology is a useful tool to improve and bring changes in student’s attitude towards application of microbiology in clinical practice. It also develops the learning interest in students and better understanding of microbiology.