Jigsaw Classroom: Perceptions of Students and Teachers

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pedagogy

Background:

• Innovative teaching methods are crucial for engaging millennial students.
• The jigsaw method is a cooperative learning strategy fostering critical thinking and communication.
• This study explored student and faculty perceptions of the jigsaw method in medical education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a jigsaw-based cooperative learning method.
• To assess student and faculty perceptions of this innovative teaching approach.
• To understand the impact on communication skills and classroom confidence.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving second-year MBBS students.
• Students were organized into 'expert' and 'parent' groups for peer teaching.
• Validated questionnaires and thematic analysis were used for feedback collection.

Main Results:

• 81% of students reported enhanced communication skills.
• 75% of students felt the method helped overcome shyness.
• Faculty feedback indicated the jigsaw method was beneficial.

Conclusions:

• Cooperative learning strategies like the jigsaw method promote student-student discussion.
• The jigsaw method improves communication and teaching skills.
• This approach positively impacts student learning attitudes and confidence.