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Effectiveness of online learning in improving optometry student's reflective abilities.
Ravid Doron1, Rachel Eichler1, Vidyut Rajhans2
1Department of Optometry, Hadassah Academic College Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
Synchronous online case-based reflections effectively improved optometry students' reflective abilities. This virtual approach enhanced self-reflection, empathy, and communication skills, crucial for healthcare professionals.
Area of Science:
- Optometry Education
- Medical Training
- Online Learning
Background:
- Optometry education aims to foster reflective practice skills.
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated rapid shifts to online learning, challenging traditional training methods.
- Developing reflective skills in optometry students faced significant hurdles due to online transitions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of synchronous online case-based reflection sessions in training optometry students.
- To test the hypothesis that virtual case-based reflections can impart essential reflective practice skills.
- To assess the impact of online learning on the development of reflective competencies in optometry.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involved synchronous, online, small group workshops for case-based reflections.
- The Groningen Reflection Ability Scale (GRAS) measured reflective competencies before and after the intervention.
- Data analysis included Mann-Whitney tests and qualitative thematic methods.
Main Results:
- 104 optometry students participated, showing a significant improvement in overall reflective ability (p<0.05).
- A positive trend was observed across all measured components: self-reflection, empathetic reflection, and communication reflection.
- The study demonstrated a statistically significant enhancement in students' reflective capacities.
Conclusions:
- Synchronous online case-based reflections are effective for developing reflective skills in optometry students.
- Virtual patient experiences and case-based practices in online workshops enhance healthcare professional development.
- Students found the online reflective activity valuable for their growth as future healthcare providers.
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