Computer assisted learning (CAL) as a teaching learning method in teaching experimental pharmacology
Keywords:
Computer assisted learning, Experimental pharmacologyAbstract
Background: Computer assisted learning (CAL) for teaching experimental pharmacology is becoming fast acceptable in many medical colleges, where there is not only shortage of animals ,support staff, financial aid but also ethical issues and unwanted cruelty to animals. The objective of this study was to ascertain the efficiency of CAL in teaching experimental pharmacology using pre-test and post- test questionnaire before and after CAL respectively and also compare the outcome among average and under performers while using CAL.
Methods: Average (A, B) and under performers (C) were identified using their university exam results. All the 3 groups (A,B,C) with a sample of 30 students each underwent pre-test in the topic selected ,then they were given a brief on CAL after which they individually worked on the computer and then a post test was given.
Results: All the 3 group students pre and post test result analysis showed an improved performance in the outcome with significant p values (p<0.0003, 0.0001, 0.0001). Further on comparison within the groups suggested outcome differences in underperformers in comparison with average performers (A Vs C, B Vs C p values 0.0069, 0.0009 respectively).
Conclusions: Thus this study suggests that CAL is a good teaching learning method in all groups of students and the average performers outdo the underperformers in terms of outcome analysis after CAL.
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