Journal article
An evaluation of formative ‘in class’ versus ‘e-learning’ activities to benefit student learning outcomes in Biomedical Sciences
Journal of Biomedical Education, Vol.2017, 9127978
2017
Abstract
In conventional teaching, curriculum design that incorporates formative activities with prompt and constructive feedback is proven to have a positive effect on learning outcomes. Nevertheless, there is limited evidence that activities involving e-learning also have this positive effect and this is particularly the case within the discipline of hematopathology (i.e. study of blood disorders). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of e-learning formative activities in hematopathology and to assess if, by using this resource learning is enhanced. To address the research question an e-learning module for anemia was developed to determine if it significantly increased knowledge, expressed by improved assessment grades. Seventy-three students from health science programs that were enrolled in first year hematology participated in the study. Students were encouraged to participate in two formative activities: one held in class and the other developed online as an e-learning module. Results showed a statistically significant increase in mean summative assessment score (P = 0.03) and final grade (P = 0.02) for students who completed the formative e-learning module. Interactive e-learning modules not only assists with engagement but also significantly improve grade outcomes. From this study e-learning resources to teach and learn hematopathology are an option for all educators but, in particular, those who have reduced face-to-face contact hours to teach the basic sciences.
Details
- Title
- An evaluation of formative ‘in class’ versus ‘e-learning’ activities to benefit student learning outcomes in Biomedical Sciences
- Authors
- Rebecca M Donkin (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and EngineeringElizabeth Askew (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering
- Publication details
- Journal of Biomedical Education, Vol.2017, 9127978; 7
- Publisher
- Hindawi Publishing Corporation
- Date published
- 2017
- DOI
- 10.1155/2017/9127978
- ISSN
- 2314-5021; 2314-5021
- Copyright note
- Copyright © 2017 Rebecca Donkin and Elizabeth Askew. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
- Organisation Unit
- School of Health - Biomedicine; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Health and Sport Sciences - Legacy; Thompson Institute; School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - Legacy
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99450509702621
- Output Type
- Journal article
- Research Statement
- false
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