Challenges and strategies in developing team-based learning in Chinese medical education

INTRODUCTION: Team-based learning (TBL) is gradually being integrated into Chinese medical education. This study reports its current application status in Chinese medical schools, as well as the underlying challenges and strategies to improve TBL application. METHOD: We screened publication databases and surveys to investigate TBL usage and concerns regarding TBL application by Chinese medical educators. Articles published by 79 Chinese medical schools include 163 articles among 20 topic areas of basic medicine and 226 articles among 16 clerkship disciplines. The opinions of 123 Chinese medical teachers were solicited from 46 medical schools in 26 provinces/municipalities. RESULTS: Approximately less than half of Chinese medical schools used TBL in basic medicine or clerkship disciplines. Among these, only 10% of schools reported TBL usage in both clerkship disciplines and basic medicine. Both quantitative and qualitative results revealed that public awareness of TBL, executive support, professional training, sharing of resources and integration of multiple disciplines are critical factors in facilitating TBL application, and in recruiting and developing TBL teachers. CONCLUSION: TBL application in Chinese medical education is limited. Executive/financial support and establishment of a platform to provide technical support, share resources and regulate TBL practice quality will facilitate TBL application in Chinese medical education.