Blended learning model via small private online course improves active learning and academic performance of embryology

Abstract

While blended learning has been growing in popularity in recent years, the effectiveness of this procedure remains controversial. In this report, we assess the effectiveness of blended learning of embryology within international medical students. The participants were international medical students taking embryology in the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery program. The blended learning group (BLG) consisted of students (n = 43) in the 2018-2019 academic year, taught with blended learning model via a customized small private online course (SPOC). The control traditional teaching group (TTG) consisted students (n = 48) in the 2017-2018 academic year, taught with traditional teaching model. Academic performance, including mean scores and passing ratios on the final exam of two groups were compared and analyzed with a t-test. In addition, a questionnaire directed toward evaluating student's perceptions with the blended learning was administered to students in BLG.The majority of students in BLG actively participated in online self-study activities and discussion in face-to-face class sessions. The mean score and passing ratio were significantly greater than those of students in TTG (p < 0.01). Results from the questionnaire revealed that the majority of BLG students felt that this method was beneficial for their learning of human embryology. The blended learning model, that integrates SPOC with face-to-face class lectures proved a more effective means for the teaching of embryology than the traditional lecture-based teaching model. This blended learning method may serve as a feasible model that can be readily applied for use in other medical courses.

The use of active methodologies for the teaching of human embryology: A systematic review

“…According to the authors, this is a good method to study embryology, being more effective than the traditional model. The method is believed to stimulate students in their self‐directed learning (Guo et al, 2021).…”

“…Relate the theoretical contents with the practices of the discipline and capture the students' attention with the activities developed in the classroom. Guo et al, 2021 It used the blended learning method compared to the traditional teaching control group. In addition to participating in the traditional method, the members of the blended learning group had access to a private online group where they held discussions and exercise resolutions.…”

“…This subject belongs to the basic sciences axis, normally addressed in the first year of the curricula in the health area. Being a prerequisite for understanding clinical knowledge involved with pre‐ and post‐natal development such as gynaecology, obstetrics, paediatrics and teratology (Guo et al, 2021). Based on these premises, this study aimed to carry out a systematic review on the use of active methodologies for the teaching of human embryology.…”

Research on the impact of the socio-educational environment on the academic performance of college students: the mediating role of study motivation

“…The traditional methodology of instruction primarily entails the dissemination of knowledge through theoretical lectures and direct demonstrations during practical laboratory sessions (Deng, 2023). While these methods indeed serve a necessary purpose by directly aiding in students' comprehension of course content and operational procedures, the integration of novel pedagogical approaches such as online and offline blended teaching methods, can effectively enhance the quality of instruction (Guo et al, 2022).…”

The application and influence of “Small Private Online Course” based on flipped classroom teaching model in the course of fundamental operations in surgery

“…Supported by advanced teaching conception and network technique, the application of SPOC acted as a teaching method for supplement rather than substitution of class teaching. Instead of full-time online teaching in MOOC, SPOC combined online resources and class teaching, allowing face-to face communication between students and teachers as well as students and students 5 .…”