‘Problem-based learning’ is a concept of learning in which students focus from the beginning of their course on a series of real professional issues, where the knowledge of the various academic disciplines that relate to these issues is integrated. The process evolved from dissatisfaction with the usual teaching methods in higher education, particularly in medicine. It seems eminently applicable to the education of occupational therapists, and its wider adoption is advocated. Part 1 of this article outlines the development of problem-based learning, describes its rationale, and discusses some of the evidence of its effectiveness. Part 2 will describe its implementation in the new BSc course at the London School of Occupational Therapy, West London Institute, College of Brunel University.
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