Use of WhatsApp as an Online Assessment Tool During Pandemic: Experiences From a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background: Higher education institutions and universities use various online learning management systems for the process of teaching and learning. With increased use of mobiles in students, M- Learning is also a widely used approach for online education. WhatsApp messenger is free, easy to use and can be accessed anywhere, hence gaining popularity as one of the platforms of teaching learning tool. Method: This paper focuses on the use of WhatsApp as a tool for online assessments in poor resource settings. In the absence of centre-based face to face exam due to COVID 19 pandemic situation, a sudden transition to an open book online exam was conducted first time for Physiotherapy students. We have used WhatsApp messenger application as a primary communication tool due to nonavailability of online learning management systems and also considering the internet issues which students might face while appearing for exams from home. Result: WhatsApp was the easiest mode of communication in absence of online training and was used as a medium to conduct theory and practical exams. It was used for posting question papers on students – teachers group and for further exam related fast communication with the students. This paper highlights advantages and challenges of use of WhatsApp as online exam tool. It also narrates student's experiences of open book exam. Conclusion: WhatsApp though easy was time consuming with added responsibilities on teachers. Open book exam at home had a challenge of not being exam friendly environment. [Geete D Natl J Integr Res Med, 2020; 11(5):61-65]