Students' learning behavior in digital education for radiation oncology

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Radiation Oncology
• Digital Learning Technologies

Background:

• Medical education is undergoing global reform driven by digitalization.
• Student and political demand for modernized educational environments is increasing.
• Radiation oncology (RO) education requires innovative digital tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess student perception of a new digital RO educational program.
• The program integrated an interactive e-book, YouTube learning clips, videoconferences, and a query forum.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of this blended digital learning approach.

Main Methods:

• Five evaluations with multiple-choice and free-text answers were conducted over three semesters.
• Student perception, learning behavior (video access, question quality), and exam results were analyzed.
• Qualitative feedback from forums and emails was also incorporated.

Main Results:

• Asynchronous learning was preferred on weekdays; however, self-directed learning proved challenging for students.
• Voluntary interim tests initially improved engagement but exam results remained unsatisfactory (59.1%-69.5%).
• Implementing compulsory tests, structured learning schedules, and frequent videoconferences significantly increased exam success rates to 93%.

Conclusions:

• Digital teaching enhances transparency in teaching quality and student learning behaviors.
• Structured content delivery, weekly learning specifications, and regular progress monitoring are crucial for student success.
• The new digital education program demonstrated high acceptance and preference among students for future continuation.