The post-pandemic transformation in Pathophysiology teaching strategies

The pandemic has fundamentally altered the way that medical students acquire knowledge, making blended learning the predominant student-centered teaching model. This approach has demonstrated positive effects on developing key competencies in clinical medical students. Furthermore, research indicates that case-based learning (CBL) and integrated teaching are beneficial attempts to achieve the above educational goals. In this study, students from the grades of 2020 and 2021 were provided with Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) resources. A blended learning approach combining CBL with cross-chapter integration in Pathophysiology was implemented to construct an effective post-pandemic teaching model, with the aim of enhancing the comprehensive abilities of medical students. Results showed that this case-based, integrated blended teaching model led to an increase in final exam scores, particularly in the proportion of high-scoring students across both cohorts. A significant score improvement was also observed in integrated module assessments. Survey results revealed that most students agreed the new model enhanced their self-directed learning, motivation, and classroom engagement, supporting personalized learning and knowledge integration. Consequently, this model may serve as a valuable template for post-pandemic course design in local medical universities.