Team-Based Learning (TBL) (JiTL)-TBL Handout

Pdf Summary

Team-Based Learning (TBL) is a collaborative learning strategy designed to shift classroom focus from traditional lecturing to application of concepts through structured teamwork. Developed by Larry Michaelsen, TBL uses a specific sequence of individual preparation, team work, and immediate feedback to foster student accountability and active learning.<br /><br />Key features of TBL include large, diverse, permanent teams (5-7 members), accountability for pre-class preparation, complex decision-making that requires course concepts, and frequent timely feedback. Instead of acquiring knowledge primarily during class through lectures, TBL moves initial knowledge acquisition outside of class via assigned readings. Students demonstrate readiness using the Readiness Assurance Process (RAP), which includes an individual test (iRAT), an immediate team retake using scratch-off IF-AT cards (tRAT), and a team appeals process pushing teams back to difficult material for further study. The instructor then provides a focused mini-lecture on challenging concepts identified through test data.<br /><br />Following RAP, students spend most class time collaboratively applying course concepts to significant, real-world problems structured around the “4 S’s”: Same problem, Significant problem, Specific choice, and Simultaneous report. Teams report decisions simultaneously, stimulating discussion, defense, and critical evaluation of divergent solutions. This process encourages genuine problem-solving over compromise or voting and moves learning up Bloom’s taxonomy from remembering and understanding to analyzing, evaluating, and creating.<br /><br />TBL promotes team accountability, improves problem-solving, and emphasizes difficult concepts while working effectively even in large classes (up to 150 students or more). Extensive research shows teams consistently outperform their best individual member, demonstrating the value of collaborative learning. The method enhances student engagement, responsibility, and understanding by integrating preparation, teamwork, and immediate feedback within the classroom experience.

Asset Subtitle

This two-page handout presents the the process and sequence of events used by the TBL model.

Keywords

Team-Based Learning

TBL

Larry Michaelsen

collaborative learning

Readiness Assurance Process

iRAT

tRAT

4 S's

active learning

problem-solving