COMPARISON BETWEEN ONLINE AND ON CAMPUS CBL SESSIONS: PERCEPTIONS OF STUDENTS IN HITEC-IMS, TAXILA

Abstract

Background: Medical colleges and educational institutions around the world underwent a major shift of teaching methodology from regular classroom environments to virtual classrooms during the COVID-19 pandemic. While many instructional methodologies were easily conducted in both formats, interactive activities requiring group participation like CBLs presented a big challenge. The objective of this study was to compare Online and On-campus formats of CBL sessions through students’ feedback and identify the areas in both formats that require amelioration. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted at HITEC-IMS, Taxila including 185 students from 1^st year and 2^nd year MBBS who had attended at least 4 CBL sessions online and on campus formats. The questionnaire comprised of statements evaluating 5 major constructs: Acquisition of knowledge (AK), Critical thinking (CT), Communication skills (CSKILL), Presentation skills (PS), and Physical Environment (PE). Responses were assessed on a 5-points Likert scale. Data was analysed on SPSS-28. The two formats were compared using Chi-square test, and p?0.05 was considered significant. Results: Responses for acquisition of knowledge (74.6% vs 69.2%) and critical thinking (75% vs 70%) were comparable for both formats while online format was lacking in attainment of communication skills (67% vs 80%) and presentation skills (56.8% vs 71.4%). Conclusion: Respondents perceived On-campus format as a better option for conduction of CBL.

Pak J Physiol 2022;18(3):39?43