Problems based learning curriculum and the changing role of the library

Abstract

Several medical schools have adopted some version of problem based learning (PBL) in the process of changing their curricula in the last few decades. PBL is student based learning and the students need to gain the knowledge and the ability to use library resources. Therefore the library is called upon to play a new role as guide, negotiator and facilitator for the students to search for reading materials in print or non print form. The results of a number of surveys have revealed that the students in PBL curricula make more use of the library than those in traditional curricula. Medical libraries are encounted with several challenges such as selecting reading material for clinical problems at all levels and prociding an effective library orientation programme.