NCT07435558

Homogeneous vs. Heterogeneous Learning Style Grouping in Problem-Based Learning Among Nurses

Effect of Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Grouping Based on the Felder-Silverman Learning Style Model on Problem-Based Learning Outcomes Among Nurses: A Parallel Randomized Clinical Trial

• Status: Not Yet Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 78 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: —
• Healthy volunteers: Accepted

Summary

Problem-based learning (PBL) is a learner-centered educational approach that helps nurses improve clinical skills through group discussion, case analysis, and collaborative problem-solving. However, the way participants are assigned to learning groups may influence how effectively they learn. Differences in learning styles among group members can affect participation, confidence, interaction quality, and knowledge retention. The Felder-Silverman Learning Style Model (FSLSM) is a widely used framework that categorizes learners based on how they perceive, process, and understand information (e.g., active vs. reflective, visual vs. verbal). Organizing PBL groups according to similarities or differences in these learning styles may lead to different educational outcomes. This study is a parallel, two-arm randomized controlled clinical trial designed to compare the effects of homogeneous grouping (participants with similar learning styles placed in the same group) versus heterogeneous grouping (participants with diverse learning styles placed in the same group) on PBL outcomes among hospital nurses. Registered nurses employed in teaching hospitals affiliated with Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences are randomly assigned to one of the two grouping strategies. All participants receive the same PBL curriculum focused on patient safety and medication safety. The only difference between groups is the method used to form discussion teams. The primary outcome is medication safety competence, measured using a validated questionnaire. Secondary outcomes include clinical reasoning competence and nursing care quality. Outcomes are assessed at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and eight weeks later to evaluate both immediate effects and short-term retention. The findings of this study are expected to clarify whether grouping nurses based on similar or diverse learning styles leads to better improvement and retention of critical clinical competencies. Results may help educators design more effective PBL programs in nursing education and clinical training settings.

Conditions

• Problem-based Learning in Nursing Education
• Nurses
• Randomized Clinical Trial

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Homogeneous FSLSM-Based PBL Grouping	An 8-session problem-based learning workshop delivered over six weeks focusing on patient safety culture, medication safety, root cause analysis, human factors, team communication, error disclosure, and risk management. Groups are formed to ensure similarity in learning style profiles according to Index of Learning Styles (ILS) scores. Sessions include case discussions, role-play, team-based tasks, brief simulations, and group presentations. Facilitators follow standardized guides.
BEHAVIORAL	Heterogeneous FSLSM-Based PBL Grouping	An 8-session problem-based learning workshop delivered over six weeks focusing on patient safety and related competencies. Group composition is determined using an Artificial Bee Colony optimization algorithm to maximize diversity of learning style profiles while maintaining balance across groups. Educational materials, facilitators, and learning activities are identical to the homogeneous arm.

Timeline

• Start date: 2026-03-07
• Primary completion: 2026-06-30
• Completion: 2026-07-15
• First posted: 2026-02-27
• Last updated: 2026-03-02