Determining The Impact of A Guided Workshop on The Educational Use of Social Networking Sites Among Medical and Health Sciences Students; A Cross Campus Study

Abstract

BackgroundIn recent years, social networking sites (SNSs) have evolved beyond connection and networking to become a powerful instructional tool. There is still a dearth of knowledge on the professional use of SNS for education particularly among students from diverse backgrounds. This study examined the extent and pattern of usage SNS in education across six institutions and then conducted an interventional workshop to fortify and regulate the educational use of SNS. MethodsThis multicenter study was done in two phases. In the first phase, an online cross-sectional survey using a validated inventory was conducted to determine the prevalence, extent, and preferences of SNS usage by students in medicine, health sciences and dentistry across six centers. Later, the second phase of the study was undertaken in a 60-minute guided live workshop on the appropriate use of SNS for academics. Additionally, a pre- and post-test survey were conducted to assess the workshop's impact and outcome.ResultsOf the 1722 respondents, 1553 (90%) reported using SNS with the frequency of once a month to three to five times per day for education and to stay in touch with others. Most agreed with the benefits of SNS for education mainly in terms of information gathering, networking and collaboration. Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest were noted as the most preferred SNS for education. Nevertheless, 63% perceived that a proper counselling was necessary for the efficient use of SNS. Following the guided workshop, there was a significant improvement in web technology understanding, digital professionalism, and their skills and knowledge on the productive use of SNS. Students rated efficient for conceptual learning, connection to community practice, e-portfolio, and collaborative learning as the top four major teaching and learning strategies, respectively, in the post-workshop survey.ConclusionOur study demonstrates that SNS can be potentially used as essential learning tools in medical education. However, SNS usage should be regulated and guided for a more collegial and coherent learning climate in the digital realm. We urge the medical educators to integrate SNS into their courses for a technologically advanced and impactful curriculum.