Student Perceptions Regarding Group Learning Activities in a Hybrid Medical Curriculum.

Introduction: Problem- and team-based learning strategies have been introduced in the revised integrated curriculum of our medical college. This study aims to assess perceptions of students regarding recently introduced group learning activities into our hybrid curriculum.

Materials And Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study has used a pre-validated questionnaire to find out the perceptions of medical students studying at College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU). The response of students on the questionnaire was recorded by using a 5-point Likert scale. The data was analyzed by using one-way ANOVA. Mean and standard deviation were calculated. Additionally, three open-ended questions were asked to assess the merits and demerits of these newly implemented group learning approaches.

Results: Out of 736 students, 190 (25.81%) completed the questionnaire. Among the 190 respondents, 64 were from second year, 65 were from third, and 61 were from fourth. Overall, the results show a positive response of students and that they favor the introduction of group learning instructional design in the hybrid curriculum. Students perceived group learning to be helpful in developing their critical thinking, socialization, motivation, and communication skills.

Conclusion: This study concludes that group learning activities introduced in a hybrid curriculum have remained successful in promoting group dynamics and overall satisfaction of students toward group learning. However, some issues have been reported too. The views of the students recorded in this study might be helpful in evaluating the implemented hybrid curricula and in optimizing the group environment and function.