AIM  To evaluate the application of Team-Based Learning in instruction of cardiovascular damage caused by atmospheric pollutants.

  METHODS  Two classes of 5-year-program aerospace medical students were chosen for this study. The students were divided into control group (the class of 2013, 87 students) and experimental group (the class of 2014, 90 students). The traditional teaching method was used for control group, while the Team-Based Learning method was used for experimental group. At the end of the course, examinations and questionnaire survey were administered and the scores were analyzed. The teaching effectiveness was expressed as percentage.

  RUSULTS  The average scores in control group was significantly lower than those in experimental group (P<0.05). According to the results of questionnaire survey, the Team-Based Learning method was obviously better than traditional teaching method, not only improving their teamwork, independent thinking and autonomous learning but also their study of curriculum content.

  CONCLUSION  The application of Team-Based Learning in instruction of cardiovascular damage caused by atmospheric pollutants significantly improves the effect of classroom instruction, helps the students deepen their understanding of knowledge and enhances a variety of students’ ability.