Methodological proposal for teaching biomedicine oriented to molecular detection and diagnosis tools for medical students

Background: Currently, biomedicine has become an indispensable tool for health sciences. However, there is a lack of formal educational proposals focused on teaching this field to medical students. This article presents the design of a methodological proposal for teaching biomedicine oriented to diagnostic tools for infectious diseases, within the context of the medical program at the Universidad Internacional SEK in Ecuador. Methods: The proposed structure is based on the requirements of basic science subjects that students must complete to understand molecular diagnostics. A hybrid problem-based learning methodology is proposed, applied in theory and practice classes. The necessary resources are associated with scientific articles, reagents and equipment for performing molecular tests, biological samples, and the infrastructure for conducting laboratory practices. Results: The proposal begins with a problem based on signs and symptoms of a disease, the need for sensitive and specific tests, and the incorporation of the concepts of One Health, microbiome and dysbiosis. The workflow in the classes is developed with the active participation of the student, through readings, discussions, presentations and laboratories, along with traditional teaching components, as well as oral and written assessments. Conclusions: The proposal presented here is based on a flexible teaching strategy supported by various resources, which seek significant learning, sustained by the student's autonomous work and guidance from the teacher.