Muscle and Nerve: A Team-Based Learning Module for Histology

Abstract At the conclusion of this team-based learning (TBL) module, students will be able to describe the structural and functional characteristics of skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle; explain the basic organization and cellular composition of the central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous systems; and interpret select clinical data that reflect muscle and nervous tissue dysfunction. Our philosophy of teaching this module is to provide students with a comprehensive introduction to muscle and nervous tissue, coupled with sufficient clinical material to illustrate the relevance of histology in practice. We have previously reported that TBL modules and traditional lectures produce comparable learning outcomes in histology, as measured by our end-of-unit multiple-choice exams. The students take the TBL process seriously. They study the relevant learning materials (textbook reading assignments and class notes) prior to coming to class, and they demonstrate a good understanding of the subject matter, as evidenced by their individual readiness assurance test scores. The students also demonstrate effective teamwork, as evidenced by their group readiness assurance test scores and, more importantly, their performance on the group application exercises. Students rarely miss TBL sessions as they seem to feel an obligation to their teammates.