At the 2026 AAAAI Annual Meeting in Philadelphia, we had the opportunity to bring Problem-Based Learning to a unique kind of setting—an interactive Non-CME dinner session designed to fully engage participants and panelists
We developed a PBL case centered on a child with food allergies and anaphylaxis, a scenario many clinicians encounter but often approach in different ways. Rather than simply presenting answers from the expert panelists on stage, we invited the audience into the process prior to the panelists’ responses.
Throughout the session, participants responded to questions in real time using a mobile app—working through the case step by step before hearing from the expert panel. This created a dynamic, highly interactive environment where everyone had a voice in the discussion.
What stood out most was how engaged the room became. Instead of passively listening, attendees were thinking, deciding, and comparing their reasoning alongside colleagues and panelists.
The case also explored evolving treatment options, including newer approaches to managing food allergy and anaphylaxis, such as epinephrine nasal spray. By grounding these discussions in a real clinical scenario, the learning felt practical, relevant, and immediately applicable.
It was a great example of what PBL does best—turning complex topics into shared conversations & true group learning that deepens understanding and improves clinical decision-making.
