Introduction to Team Based Learning (TBL)

Team Based Learning (TBL)

• TBL is an evidence-based learning and teaching strategy
• It's an inductive instructional strategy, enhancing knowledge through individual testing and group collaboration
• In a TBL classroom, the majority of class time is spent on student teams solving, reporting, and discussing solutions to significant problems.

Introduction to TBL

• The session explores what TBL is
• It examines the contrast between TBL and other learning approaches
• It covers TBL components
• It details the steps involved in a TBL session
• It highlights the advantages of TBL

Definition of TBL

• TBL is an evidence-based learning and teaching approach
• It's an inductive instructional strategy, helping students improve knowledge through individual testing and group problem-solving.
• The bulk of time in a TBL classroom is dedicated to student teams addressing significant problems.

Four Key Components of TBL

• Carefully formed and managed teams
• Frequent and timely feedback
• Problem-solving
• Student peer evaluation

Steps of TBL

• Preparation (Pre-class): Studying basic concepts
• Readiness Assurance Process: Working on simple problems (45-75 mins class time), Individual test, Group test, Written appeals, Tutor clarification ("Mini lecture")
• Application Exercises: Working on complex problems (1-4 hours class time), Application of oriented activities
• A typical TBL course involves 5-7 modules
• Each module follows a similar pattern, beginning with readiness assurance, followed by application activities, and concluding with closure/reinforcement.
• Module length may vary, fitting into one long session or across multiple sessions.

How TBL Works: Readiness Assurance Process

• RAP (Readiness Assurance Process): A five-stage process
• Stage 1: Initial Preparation: Gathering preparatory materials/pre-readings
• Stage 2: Individual Readiness Assurance Test (iRAT): Students complete a 10-20 multiple-choice question (MCQ) test independently.
• Stage 3: Team Readiness Assurance Test (tRAT): Teams take the same MCQ test. Teams must agree on a single answer for each, using a special scoring card. Simultaneous reporting of team decisions (coloured cards)
• Stage 4: Appeals: Instructors help teams explain their answers for incorrect questions. Students explain their challenges and propose solutions for those questions they were unable to solve. Appeals documents are a clear statement of the argument with evidence
• Stage 5: Mini-lecture: Instructors clarify remaining problematic concepts

In-Class Application Activities

• After RAP, the majority of class time involves students applying course concepts and solving problems with longer class sessions building on prior learning
• Student teams use a series of application exercises to solve problems.
• Teams work simultaneously, sharing answers
• Instructors manage discussion and consolidate learning.

Advantages of TBL

• Students report improved creative and oral communication skills.
• TBL enhances active learning and teamwork.
• It is adaptable to classes of varying sizes, including large lecture halls.
• Facilitators provide immediate feedback.