‘A Day @ Medical School’ at the University of Hong Kong

Throughout this tutorial we engaged in a relatively modern style of learning – Problem Based Learning (PBL). PBL is an educational method that allows students to learn about medicine through dealing with real-life medical situations and case studies. We had the chance to sit in and observe a Year 1 HKU medical PBL class.

It was incredibly insightful and incorporated a more personal outlook, reinforcing the importance of good communication, clear understanding and an approachable relationship between the patient and the doctor.

This experience was rather unique and eye-opening, allowing us to understand that the purpose of pursuing the medical path is for our interest and passion, but more importantly, to become a doctor that can serve our community well.

Through this experience, I learnt that being doctor is not only about saving lives, but also about being thoughtful to the patients and helping them return to their normal lives.

The part of most interest to me was when we discussed the ethical issues involved in medical practice and the psycho-social implications of patients with chronic diseases.    

We were introduced to Problem Based Learning (PBL) by a group of 1st year Medical students at HKU. I found this taster session to be very interesting and informative.

What interested me the most was about the organ donation system, and having a discussion on the pros and cons of having a monetary rewards system for organ donation, and the discussion between the students were unlike what I expected.