A method of improving student learning in physiology: the small group workshop.

This teaching innovation replaces standard physiology laboratories with small group workshop tasks dealing with selected physiology problems and data. Working with a series of question sheets, the students focus on establishing a knowledge base and solving problems relating to physiology. Initial experiences show an improvement in student motivation and attitude and improved feedback to students. The major benefits of this approach include 1) enhancement of written and oral communication skills, 2) listening and interacting with group members, 3) correct use of reference materials to find answers, and 4) self-reliance and improved interest in related subject material.