Integrated PBL-CBL-CTTM Teaching to Enhance Clinical Self-Efficacy in Endocrine Critical Illness Among Internal Medicine Residents: An RCT

This randomized controlled trial evaluates whether an integrated online-offline multimodal teaching approach combining Problem-Based Learning (PBL), Case-Based Learning (CBL), and Case Three-Dimensional Teaching Method (CTTM) improves clinical self-efficacy and hands-on proficiency in managing endocrine and metabolic critical illness among internal medicine residents, compared to traditional lecture-based learning (LBL). Ninety internal medicine residents on their first endocrine rotation will be randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to three groups: (1) Control group receiving traditional LBL alone; (2) Experimental group 1 receiving PBL plus LBL; (3) Experimental group 2 receiving the integrated PBL-CBL-CTTM closed-loop teaching program. All groups receive a standardized 12-hour curriculum on endocrine and metabolic critical illness, including diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome, thyroid storm, and refractory hypoglycemia. The primary outcome is the clinical skills assessment score (0-50 points). Secondary outcomes include theoretical examination scores, General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) scores, a self-developed Endocrine High-Risk Management Self-Efficacy Source Questionnaire (four dimensions based on Bandura's self-efficacy theory), teaching satisfaction, and semi-structured focus group interviews. The study was conducted from September 2025 to August 2026 at the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Chaohu, China. This study aims to establish an evidence-based, replicable teaching model that addresses the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical confidence in managing endocrine emergencies among residents.