Student preferences for microbiology laboratory teaching approaches in a problem-based learning curriculum

Background. Microbiology is a mandatory component in all medical schools. The microbiology lab sessions at Arabian Gulf University focus on students' ability to demonstrate pre-identified laboratory competencies and relate laboratory data with clinical scenarios. We conducted a questionnaire-based survey among undergraduates to know the preferences with respect to delivery methods for optimally facilitating learning for each laboratory session. Methods. The participants were year 3 and 4 medical students who were engaged in microbiology laboratory instruction as part of their undergraduate medical education. All the participants were asked to complete the structured and validated survey (Google Forms). Descriptive statistics were used to examine the demographic characteristics of the participants and their responses to the scale items. Results. Among 168 student responses, the majority preferred a blended mode of learning of lab sessions across all the 3 years. The preferences appeared to align with the lab objectives. Students preferred theoretical aspects, and case discussions could be delivered online while the skill-based sessions may be conducted face-to-face. Conclusion. The overall trend indicated that students valued the flexibility of blended learning while recognizing the importance of in-person sessions for achieving laboratory competencies and clinical application skills. These findings will support future research in evaluating various delivery methods and contribute to the advancement of high-quality microbiology education.