Small Group Discussion versus Traditional Lecture in Anatomy Teaching: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: All educational institutions follow different types of teaching and learning methods to deliver knowledge to the students. The conventional teaching methodology is commonly used in many educational institutions. Small group discussion (SGD) aids in improving the basic skills required for every task i.e., communication skills. Enthusiastic participation help in creating a dynamic and lively environment for the progress of participants. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of Small group discussion (SGD) over traditional lectures and to assess the perception of students regarding SGD versus traditional lectures. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with MBBS Phase-I medical students from November 2019 to April 2020 in Chirayu Medical College and Hospital, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. About 150 MBBS Phase-I medical students were divided into 2 groups, A and B, 75 students per group. Group-A (Roll Number 1 to 75) was taken for traditional lecture, and Group-B (Roll Number 76 to 150) were taken for SGD. Pre and post multiple choice assessment was performed. Perception of both Groups A and B about traditional Lecture and SGD was taken by pre-validated questionnaire based on Likert’s scale. Crossover of the groups was done with second topic. Student’s t-test was used to compare pre-test and post-test results and the p<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: The mean in post-test scores of Group-B i.e., in SGD was 55.8±4.51 (p-value=0.022). As per 55 (88.7%) students, small group teaching session was less stressful. A total of 59 (95.15%) students agreed that SGD was interactive and 58 (93.54%) said they had their active participation and 61 (98.38%) students developed interest. A total of 58 (93.54%) students agreed that, it helped in retaining knowledge. As per 62 (99.9%) students, SGD was useful for improvement of communication skill among students, were of the opinion that they had a good level of discussion in SGD session. Conclusion: SGD involves active participation with good communication skills and develops good retention of knowledge. It has been introduced in the new curriculum to increase the efficiency of students.