Problem-based learning (PBL) library resources and support: survey insights from first-year dental students

Problem-based learning (PBL) is part of an integrated dental school curriculum using patient cases to learn about biomedical sciences. In PBL, students must find and evaluate information sources to support their patient cases. The library supports PBL students through course-related LibGuides, recommended textbooks, and librarian assistance. A feedback survey was conducted with first-year dental students to assess their perceptions of the usefulness of PBL library resources and the benefits of librarian support. Results indicate that students found PBL resources useful and few asked for librarian assistance. Analyzing this data led to changes in library instruction.

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Publication Details

Journal
Medical Reference Services Quarterly
Published
2026-05-28
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1080/02763869.2026.2673219
Primary Topic
Problem and Project Based Learning
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
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article

Problem-based learning (PBL) library resources and support: survey insights from first-year dental students

JENNIFER SILVERMAN
Medical Reference Services Quarterly
Problem and Project Based Learning
article

Problem-based learning (PBL) library resources and support: survey insights from first-year dental students

JENNIFER SILVERMAN
article en

Abstract

Problem-based learning (PBL) is part of an integrated dental school curriculum using patient cases to learn about biomedical sciences. In PBL, students must find and evaluate information sources to support their patient cases. The library supports PBL students through course-related LibGuides, recommended textbooks, and librarian assistance. A feedback survey was conducted with first-year dental students to assess their perceptions of the usefulness of PBL library resources and the benefits of librarian support. Results indicate that students found PBL resources useful and few asked for librarian assistance. Analyzing this data led to changes in library instruction.

Medical Reference Services Quarterly
Association of Research Libraries (US)
Quality Education
Openalex Percentile: Top 2%
Problem and Project Based Learning
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Problem-based learning (PBL) library resources and support: survey insights from first-year dental students — JENNIFER SILVERMAN · Medical Reference Services Quarterly (2026) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS