OBE vs PBL in Physiotherapy Education

Overview

This randomized controlled educational study aims to compare the effects of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) and guided Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approaches on learning processes and learning outcomes in undergraduate physiotherapy education. Although traditional theoretical instruction is widely used in health professions education, concerns remain regarding the development of clinical reasoning, active learning, and knowledge retention. OBE and PBL represent two structured educational approaches designed to support competency-based and contextual learning. Participants are randomly assigned to either an OBE-based instructional group or a guided PBL group. Following a common theoretical foundation provided to all participants, subsequent educational content is delivered according to the assigned pedagogical approach. The study will evaluate cognitive load, motivation-related self-regulated learning skills, student satisfaction, learning experience, attendance, and knowledge retention. The findings are expected to contribute to the development of evidence-based educational strategies in physiotherapy and rehabilitation education.

This randomized controlled educational study is conducted among undergraduate physiotherapy students and focuses on posture-related theoretical and applied educational content. All participants initially receive a common theoretical foundation including posture, postural alignment, balance-posture relationship, and basic postural assessment approaches prior to implementation of the educational intervention strategies. Following this common instructional phase, the educational process differs according to the assigned pedagogical approach. Participants are randomized in a 1:1 ratio to either an Outcome-Based Education (OBE) group or a guided Problem-Based Learning (PBL) group. In the OBE group, teaching activities and assessment processes are structured according to predefined learning outcomes aligned with Bloom's revised taxonomy. In the guided PBL group, participants engage in structured case-based discussions and problem-solving activities supported by instructor guidance. Students are encouraged to analyze clinical scenarios, discuss possible solutions, and apply theoretical knowledge within contextual learning processes. The study aims to compare the effects of these educational approaches on cognitive load, motivation-related self-regulated learning skills, student satisfaction, learning experience, attendance, and knowledge retention in undergraduate physiotherapy education. Demographic and educational characteristics, including citizenship, primary language of instruction, grade point average, and previous learning experiences, will be explored as potential factors associated with learning processes and learning outcomes. Sample size was determined using an a priori power analysis.