Design a Team-Based Learning (TBL) Curriculum

Design a Team-Based Learning (TBL) Curriculum

It is recommended that some of the curricula, or at least one class in your curriculum, be transformed into the Team-Based Learning (TBL) setting at the beginning. Talent and Education Development Office (TED) will support the transformation. There are different phases to work on.

Preparation Phase

Before attending the class, students are required to immerse themselves in the essential materials. They start by watching engaging pre-lecture videos designed to provide a solid foundation on the topic. Alongside the videos, students read assigned chapters or supplementary materials to deepen their understanding.

Readiness Assurance Process

At the beginning of the class, students individually tackle a short quiz, testing their grasp of the pre-class materials. It is known as the Individual Readiness Assurance Test (iRAT). Following this, students retake the same quiz in their teams, the Team Readiness Assurance Test (tRAT), fostering discussion and collaborative learning. The instructor then reviews the results, offering feedback and addressing common misconceptions.

Application Activities

The heart of the TBL class lies in the application activities. Teams engage in problem-solving exercises that challenge them to apply their knowledge creatively and critically. A key element is the group presentation, where the team leader presents their solution to the entire class, encouraging diverse viewpoints and active participation.

Class Discussion

The instructor leads a class-wide discussion, drawing on different solutions and approaches shared during the presentations. This discussion enhances understanding and encourages students to think critically about the material.

Peer Evaluation

To conclude the session, students participate in peer evaluations, providing feedback on each other's contributions to the team's efforts. This process encourages accountability and reflection, essential components of a successful team-based learning environment.

TBL Curriculum Development Checklist


Support from TED

TED is committed to successfully implementing Team-Based Learning (TBL) curricula. They offer comprehensive support throughout all phases of the TBL process: pre-class, in-class, and post-class. Here is how TED assists educators in creating dynamic and effective learning environments.

  • Consultation
    TED provides expert consultations to share best practices and discuss potential Digital Learning Activities (DLA) elements. It ensures your TBL curriculum is effectively structured and aligned with learning objectives.
  • Pre-Lecture Video Production
    Creating engaging and informative pre-lecture videos can be challenging. TED offers resources and expertise to help produce high-quality video content that prepares students for in-class activities.
  • Digitalised Learning Materials
    Transitioning to digital materials is crucial for accessibility and efficiency. TED assists in digitalising your learning materials, making them easily accessible to all students.
  • AI Chatbot for TBL Class
    To enhance student engagement and provide additional support, TED helps set up and test AI chatbots. These chatbots can answer common student queries and offer guidance on course materials.
  • Classroom Reservation
    Arranging the right space is vital for effective TBL sessions. TED assists TBL classroom reservations, ensuring that suitable environments are available for your curricula.

  • Advising on Tools for Group Exercises
    TED suggests effective tools and technologies that can facilitate group exercises and enhance collaboration among students. There are many polling and collaborating tools you may use to assist group activities online, such as uReply, Mentimeter, Microsoft Forms, Microsoft Whiteboard and more. Please feel free to consult TED for further information.
  • Assistance with Grouping
    Properly grouping students is key to successful TBL sessions. Various appointment tools can assist you with grouping students.

  • Survey Template
    Gathering feedback is essential for continuous improvement. TED provides customisable survey templates to help you collect valuable insights from students about their TBL experience.
  • Post-Class Meeting for Improvement
    TED welcomes post-class consultations and meetings to review the session and explore areas for improvement. This collaborative approach ensures that each TBL class is better than the last.

By leveraging the comprehensive support offered by TED, educators can create dynamic and effective TBL environments that foster collaboration and deep learning. Whether you are new to TBL or looking to refine your approach, TED is here to help every step of the way.



TED provides extensive support for setting up TBL curricula, from consultations to video production, digital material preparation, AI chatbot setup, classroom reservations, advising on tools, grouping assistance, feedback collection, and post-class reviews. Their goal is to help educators create or transform TBL curricula.

Sample Rundown

Phase Details
Preparation Phase
  • Complete assigned readings and preparatory materials.
  • Review key concepts and learning objectives.
Readiness Assurance Process

Time: 20-30 minutes

  • Individual Readiness Assurance Test (iRAT): Students take a short quiz individually.
  • Team Readiness Assurance Test (tRAT): Students retake the quiz in their teams, discussing and agreeing on answers.
  • Instructor Feedback: Immediate feedback on quiz answers, addressing misunderstandings.
Application Activities

Time: 60-90 minutes

  • Teams work on solving complex, real-world problems.
Class Discussion

Integrated with Application Activities

  • Teams present their solutions and engage in class-wide discussion.
  • Debate and synthesis of different viewpoints are facilitated.
Peer Evaluation

Time: 10-15 minutes

  • Students evaluate their teammates' contributions.
  • Feedback is used to improve team dynamics and individual accountability.

In a TBL curriculum, educators prepare with pre-lecture videos and readings. During class, students take individual and team quizzes, engage in team activities, and present solutions. The session concludes with a class discussion and peer evaluations.