Team-based learning (TBL) as a structured, facilitator-guided alternative to PBL using individual and team readiness assurance tests.

Design · All designs
Evidence · 2 claims (1 for, 1 against) · 1 study (1 qualitative), q2 · 0 of 1 report an effect size · 2 claims rest on one study

Description

Team-based learning (TBL) is an alternative pedagogical approach sharing many similarities with PBL, including a student-centred approach with active participation and emphasis on self-directed learning, students learning in groups and centring learning around themes on a specific disease or body system. Key differences relate to having multiple smaller groups working in a room facilitated by several academics, in a more structured and facilitator-guided learning environment. Furthermore, TBL uses individual and team readiness assurance tests (IRAT and TRAT) to support students in gauging the breadth and depth of their knowledge, supported by immediate feedback and discussion.

Design Implications

Context

Requirements

• Multiple smaller groups working in a room facilitated by several academics; individual and team readiness assurance tests with immediate feedback and discussion.

Constraints

Target Learners

• Undergraduate medical students

Learning Goals

• Self-directed learning, gauging breadth and depth of knowledge, teamworking and application of knowledge to clinical scenarios

Claims

• Staff Report Improved Engagement Teamworking Tbl [+M]
• Tbl Cohort Worse Semester Tests Than Pbl [-M]

Related Designs

Examples

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Key Sources

• Drovandi Aaron, Sheader Elizabeth, Kingston Margaret. (2026). Integrated Team-Based Learning in a UK Undergraduate Medical Programme. The Clinical Teacher. https://doi.org/10.1111/tct.70470

Page metadata

Field	Value
type	design
id	tbl-structured-alternative-to-pbl
title	Team-based learning (TBL) as a structured, facilitator-guided alternative to PBL using individual and team readiness assurance tests.
description	Team-based learning (TBL) is an alternative pedagogical approach sharing many similarities with PBL, including a student-centred approach with active participation and emphasis on self-directed learning, students lear...
status	review
generated	by process:settle-candidates on 2026-11-04
trust	unverified — no one has confirmed this page's content
sources	1 — drovandi-aaron-2026

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