Blended learning : Is it required in Human Physiology ?
Blended Learning
Keywords:
Blended learning, class room teaching, e-learningAbstract
Introduction: The present study was aimed to understand the effectiveness of blended learning in comparison with the traditional class room teaching .In addition, it also focused on understanding the student’s views and perceptions regarding the two knowledge delivering systems. Method: After the approval from Institutional Ethics committee, the project was conducted with 50 first MBBS students at the K.J. Somaiya Medical College, India. 4 topics in haematology and Gastro-intestinal Physiology were selected. Out of which, 2 haematology and 2 Gastro-intestinal Physiology topics were taken as blended learning and the remaining 2 haematology and 2 Gastro-intestinal Physiology topics were taken as a traditional class room teaching with no additional recourse material being provided. After the entire session, a written exam was conducted for the topics taught in blended learning and class room teaching and answers were corrected by the senior faculty. The marks obtained were then analysed using SPSS 16.0 software. The students were asked to fill the questionnaire regarding their experience about blended learning and class room teaching. Results : The marks obtained by the students in blended learning (p=0.000*)were significantly better compared to classroom teaching .The questionnaire showed 60-80 % students believing that blended learning helps in reinforcement and concept building process, it helps in revising the concepts as their own ease and time. Conclusion : The present study showed that the integration of blended learning has a better impact on students performance. In addition, it also showed a better acceptability of blended learning among the students concluding the need of incorporating blended learning in medical curriculum in India on a wider basis.
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