BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Problem-oriented learning (POL) is a teaching method the primary objective of which is the accumulation of medical concepts in the context of clinical problems, and which has been widely used in medical graduation since the 60s. POL is based on the information processing theory where acquisition of new knowledge is made easier by activating preexisting knowledge about the subject, by the similarity between learning contexts and knowledge application and by information improvement. Other theories have been evoked to justify POL method in Medical teaching and in other areas. The POL method uses adult teaching concepts applied to medical learning episodes. CONTENTS: This article describes the POL method, its theoretical and psychological basis, the role of professors and students in the process and suggestions for its implementation. CONCLUSIONS: As compared to traditional methods, POL has as major advantages a higher level of students and professors satisfaction, a wider source of queries and search for knowledge and more time spent with individual learning. Since the method has no disadvantages as compared to traditional methods, it could be considered a valid alternative for teaching Anesthesiology in Medical Residency Programs.
ANESTHESIOLOGY; ANESTHESIOLOGY