The JU-LMU Link for Medical Education: Exchanging Problem-Based Learning and Community-Based Education

Abstract

BACKGROUND: We introduce a newly formed link for medical education between Jimma University (JU) in Ethiopia and Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU) in Munich, Germany. Among others this cooperation has the goal to introduce the problem-based learning (PBL) approach already in use at LMU to JU and to possibly the community-based education method (CBE) successfully used in Jimma to the LMU. In order to achieve this, mutual exchange of staff and students between these two universities is necessary. METHODS: As the first part of this exchange, six interns in their final year in Medical School at Jimma University and five staff members visited LMU in Munich in June and July 2002. One of the major components of this visit was the introduction and familiarization of seniors and students with PBL. The students came for four weeks, the seniors for ten days. Upon their arrival, after every week of their stay and just before departure the students filled in questionnaires. The staff members received questionnaires upon arrival and just before departure. All these questionnaires were evaluated after completion of the visit. RESULTS: The evaluation of the questionnaires showed that the subjective wishes and goals had mostly been met, as well as the objectives set in mutual agreement for staff and students. Only minor faults were detectable in the planning; they mostly were due to the limited amount of time available which required leaving out some program points desired by both sides. CONCLUSION: According to the objectives the set goals for seniors and students were sufficientely met. For the future we plan to integrate Ethiopian students coming to LMU for PBL introduction into the courses held for the German students. Staff members travelling to Germany for becoming PBL tutors will participate in LMU’s regular PBLtutor-training program for five full days held twice a year.

Ethiop J Health Sci. Vol. 13. No. 1 January 2003