Inductive teaching method-an alternate method for small group learning

Different forms of small group interactive teaching have found an increasing role in medical education in the recent past.

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of topic-based small group tutorials and compare between two such tutorials, the directed tutorial where the tutor takes the initiative and the inductive tutorial which places the initiative on the student.

Final-year medical students were exposed to alternate sessions of directed and inductive teaching during their rotation in paediatric surgery. For inductive teaching, the topic was announced and the students took turns in asking questions and answering them, the tutor stepping in only when required. The tutor both initiated and guided the discussion in the directed method. Students assessed the tutorials and compared the two learning methods evaluating eight different parameters using a Likert scale. Statistical significance was tested using the Wilcoxon signed ranks test.

Feedback was available from 49 out of 52 students. The tutorials were ranked highly for all parameters studied. The inductive method was better for comfort, interest, memory, inspiration to read more, comprehension and for correlation with previous knowledge (P < 0.05). The directed method was superior for the content covered in a given time (P < 0.001).

The topic-based tutorials were effective. The inductive method by adding a reflective component, appeared to facilitate deep learning. Further research will determine its suitability for formal introduction into the curriculum.