Community-based education: a case study of the MED 113 Expo at the University of the Free State

Abstract

Complaints that health professionals do not address the needs of society have necessitated new methods of teaching and learning. The community-based education (CBE) approach could address these concerns. The aim of this study was to determine if community-based activities could help students to integrate theory and practice, or influence their attitudes and behaviour towards the community. It was a quantitative study including a literature review and questionnaires. The results yielded a 75.7% positive response with regard to the integration of theory and practice and a 77.9% positive response in terms of changed attitudes towards the community. Recommendations are made on changes to the CBE activities of MED 113 in order for it to serve as a model for other CBE modules at the University of the Free State.