Use of Debates in Team-Based Learning to Improve Critical Thinking Skill of Medical Students: A Mixed Method Study

This mixed qualitative and quantitative study was conducted to assess use of debates in team-based learning to improve critical thinking skill of medical students at Combined Military Hospital Lahore Medical College and Institute of Dentistry (CMH LMC & IOD) in the months of February and March, 2023. Non-probability, purposive sampling was done and 26 students of final year, Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) attending the Obstetrics and Gynecology ward for clinical rotation in the study period were included after informed consent. The team-based learning session with debates was conducted with pre and post-test to assess critical thinking of students. Results were compared using paired-t test, taking P values < .05 as statistically significant. Students’ reflection on their learning and notes of Teacher observation were obtained and thematic analysis was done. A total of 26 students, 14 girls and 12 boys, were included in our study. The mean score of pre-test was 3.8 ±1.7 and mean score of post-test was 5.3 ±1.4, generating a statistically significant p value. The three common themes identified in student reflection and teacher observation were 1) team work, 2) active learning and 3) critical thinking. The student reflections also identified the theme of ‘good learning environment’. The teacher observation identified two other themes 1) improved confidence and 2) student engagement. Debates improve student engagement, team work, communication and critical thinking skills of medical students.