Case-based learning: Study of an educational tool for active and meaningful learning in forensic medicine

At present, Forensic Medicine is mainly taught by means of didactic lectures and practical classes, where there is minimal active participation from the students. As a result, the students fail to develop critical thinking and reasoning skills required during the practice of Forensic Medicine. Case-based learning is an interactive student centred teaching-learning method, wherein real life situations are used in the form of cases to promote active learning and imparting analytical as well as reasoning skills.

Amongst the second year medical students, two groups were formed to conduct the case-based learning project. The academic performance of the study and control group was compared. Moreover, perceptions of the students towards case-based learning were also recorded using questionnaire.

There was a statistically significant difference in the mean scores of the study group as compared to the control group. The students strongly agreed that the case-based methodology enhanced their learning skills, analytical and problem solving skills, along with independent learning abilities in Forensic Medicine.

The students largely favoured the case-based learning in Forensic Medicine. Case-based learning could be implemented as an adjunct to the conventional teaching in Forensic Medicine.