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Best practices for learning physiology: combining classroom and online methods
Lisa C Anderson1, Kathleen E Krichbaum2
1Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota; and ander350@umn.edu.
Advances in Physiology Education
|July 7, 2017
Summary
Comparing hybrid physiology courses, this study found that mostly online sections showed greater pretest-posttest knowledge gains and improved student satisfaction in the second year. Effective online and in-class combinations are key for health science education.
Area of Science:
- Physiology education
- Health sciences pedagogy
- Online learning efficacy
Background:
- Physiology is foundational for allied health programs.
- Evaluating online and in-class hybrid teaching methods is crucial.
- Demand for online health science education necessitates efficacy studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- Compare two hybrid physiology sections: mostly in-class (85%) vs. mostly online (85%).
- Assess differences in physiology knowledge (exam scores, pretest-posttest improvement) and student satisfaction.
- Analyze findings over two academic years.
Main Methods:
- Two hybrid physiology course sections were compared across two years.
- Knowledge was measured via exam scores and pretest-posttest improvements.
- Student satisfaction was assessed through ratings of teaching.
Main Results:
- Year 1: No significant differences in mean exam scores or pretest-posttest improvements; mostly in-class students reported higher satisfaction.
- Year 2: No significant differences in mean exam scores; mostly online students showed significantly greater pre-post knowledge gains and improved satisfaction.
- Findings suggest a shift in efficacy favoring online components in the second year.
Conclusions:
- Effective combinations of in-class and online methods are essential for optimal student learning outcomes.
- Online learning offers flexibility and convenience valuable in health science education.
- Further research into hybrid models is needed to balance learning and accessibility.