PREFERRED AREAS OF SELF DIRECTED LEARNING IN BIOCHEMISTRY USING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES: AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY IN THE PHASE 1 CURRICULUM OF MBBS

Abstract

Introduction: In light of the changing medical curriculum proposed under Graduate Medical EducationRegulations(2019), self-directed learning (SDL) has become the preferred learning model. Mobile devices,such as smart phones and tablets are being increasingly used to assist SDL among medical students. Theintegration of mobile learning in the undergraduate curriculum requires careful planning, more so in thesubject of Biochemistry which requires in depth understanding of the three dimensional structures, reactionsteps and clinical correlation. So, maximum knowledge regarding the perception of medical students towardsthe use of mobile technology in their learning experience is essential. With this background,a cross-sectionalobservational study was designed to study the common practice and behaviours of the phase 1 M.B.B.S. students relating to use of mobile devices for learning of Biochemistry.

Methodology: Data was collected from 192 participants by a pre-designed and pre-validated questionnaire and was analysed by appropriate statistical tests.

Results: Mobile devices were universally being used for self-directed study in Biochemistry by the phase 1 M.B.B.S students. Students found mobile based SDL most effective for the study of competencies under Clinical and applied Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in the undergraduate Biochemistry curriculum. Mobile learning was mostly used by students for concept development and doubt clearance of the subject matter being taught in their classes.

Conclusion: The present work shows that mobile learning is largely rampant among the students and has delineated the preference of the topics and different domains of Biochemistry learning utilized by the phase 1 M.B.B.S students. This will help in formulating the process of mobile technology based SDL in Biochemistry for better utility among the students.