Abstract: Objective To evaluate the application of problem-based learning (PBL) and case-based learning (CBL) combined with ideological-political elements in surgical clinical ethics. Methods Eighty graduate students of grade 2022 majoring in surgery from Peking Union Medical College were selected as the subjects for the clinical ethics course offered in the first semester of the 2022—2023 academic year. They underwent the innovative pedagogies of PBL and CBL combined with ideological-political elements. The satisfaction investigation and questionnaire surveys were performed to evaluate the effects. Results A total of 78 valid questionnaires were received. The Results showed that 96.2% of students believed that this course supported them to understand the fundamental principles and knowledge of surgical clinical ethics and 94.9% of students expressed their willingness to expand their knowledge, indicating high satisfaction with the course. There were 91% of students acknowledged this model in terms of improving active learning and 93.6% stated that the course helped in developing good professional ethics.Most students responded positively to this model because of its contribution to enhance core clinical competencies. Conclusions The PBL and CBL combined with ideological-political elements have a better effect on surgical clinical ethics with high satisfaction of the students.

Key words: surgical clinical ethics, problem-based learning, case-based learning, ideological-political elements, teaching reform