Problem-based student-directed learning in medicine.

Abstract

Since World War II, there has been an explosion of medical facts and knowledge. It is almost impossible for a medical student to memorize and retain all there is to know. Even if he or she could, the data base is constantly changing, and new knowledge is being discovered. It is the responsibility of the physician to remain current, even though there are no daily lectures. Problem-based student-directed learning offers the student a different context within which to learn and lays the foundation for becoming a lifelong independent learner.