Advancing Healthcare Education: A Comprehensive Review of Case-based Learning

Abstract

Abstract Background: Case-based learning (CBL) has gained prominence in healthcare education as an effective pedagogical approach that bridges the gap between theory and practice. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of CBL in healthcare education, including its definition, evolution, benefits and challenges. Objective: The objective of this review was to assess the use of CBL in healthcare education and its impact on students’ knowledge, skills and attitudes. Methodology: A thorough literature search was conducted across multiple databases, and the inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to identify relevant articles. Results: The synthesised data are presented in a narrative format, highlighting the benefits of CBL, such as fostering critical thinking, promoting higher-level learning outcomes, enhancing problem-solving abilities, aligning with real-world practice and facilitating collaborative and active learning. Real-world case studies from various institutions further demonstrate the effectiveness of CBL in healthcare education. Within nursing education specifically, CBL provides students with valuable classroom exposure to authentic scenarios encountered in clinical practice. Conclusion: This review emphasises the importance of CBL as a transformative approach in preparing future healthcare professionals for the dynamic challenges of the healthcare industry.