Active and problem-based learning: two years' experience in physiology at the Medical School of the University of Barcelona.

Traditional educational methods are used in most medical schools. The introduction of new methods including active and problem-solving learning in traditional medical schools is difficult. The aims of this experiment were: (1) to introduce a self-learning system with a problem-solving approach in physiology; (2) to promote active student participation; (3) to introduce early clinical exposure; (4) to evaluate the response of the students to this experiment; and (5) to evaluate the feasibility and usefulness of a self-learning and problem-solving approach in only one discipline. Our experience has shown that it is possible to change the learning system in a traditional medical school, with good acceptance by the students and with a high level of satisfaction on the part of the teachers.