Problem based small group learning in anatomy of physiotherapy students: internet versus conventional dissection method of learning

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Original Article

Author Details : Najma Mobin

Volume : 3, Issue : 4, Year : 2016

Article Page : 514-517

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Abstract

Background: The traditional method of learning through dissection with the help of a facilitator and the benefit of small-group interaction takes an upper hand in understanding the clinical and surgical aspects of Anatomy, although the Internet delivers well-accepted educational materials quickly and effectively. The main objective behind this quantitative analytical study was to determine the effectiveness of a problem-based small - group learning (PBSGL) intervention of Physiotherapy (BPT) students conducted via internet and the conventional dissection method, in a randomized controlled trial.
Methods: All the 64 BPT students were sensitized about the Anatomy of Cubital fossa as a regular theory class, and the basics of the topic was discussed. These 64 students were randomly assigned to a study group (n=32) and a control group (n=32).The control group (C-group) were made to do dissection of cubital fossa by regular conventional method with the help of a facilitator followed by group interaction whereas, the study group (S-group) were given the same topic to study via the internet but without the help of a facilitator and without the benefit of small-group interaction.
Results: The outcome measures included the qualitative feedback from the learners through the multiple choice questions (MCQ) test. The results of the two methods were analyzed and statistically compared and evaluated, looking into the feasibility, key to success, utility of internet-assisted education from an education and evaluation perspective.
Conclusion: The statistical result of the MCQ tests revealed a significant difference between the study group and the control group. From our study we can conclude that PBL with small group interaction using the conventional dissection method with the help of a facilitator to solve the problem is a useful learning tool than the internet learning method devoid of a facilitator and group interaction.

Keywords: Problem based learning; Small group learning in medical education; Digital media and technologies in medical education

How to cite : Mobin N, Problem based small group learning in anatomy of physiotherapy students: internet versus conventional dissection method of learning. Indian J Clin Anat Physiol 2016;3(4):514-517

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