Effectiveness of Video Assisted Learning in Histology among 1st Year Medical Undergraduate Students

Abstract

It is observed that social media and digital platforms like Youtube are highly popular among the Gen Z learners. Histology is that part of Anatomy which is often neglected by the 1^st year MBBS students. They often find it difficult especially the practical part where they have to identify the histology slides. This study was done to assess the effectiveness of YouTube as an adjunct tool for 1^st year MBBS students. Materials & Methods: Two units of histology was chosen. The lecture class for both units were taken in regular manner. For unit 1 videos were shown before the regular practical classes and for unit 2, the videos were not shown. The students were assessed regarding their identification immediately after completion and 10 days after the completion of unit. The knowledge component was assessed. Student’s feedback was collected by Likert’s scale.Results:The mean score obtained by the students in identification test of unit 1 (with video) was 3.87 with a standard deviation of ±1.02 whereas the mean score of unit 2 was 3.04 with a standard deviation of ±1.07.  About 60% of students opined that the videos help in easier identification of slides and in memorising them.Discussion: The critical shortcoming in histology is the gap in student theory and practical knowledge. Videos can be as useful adjunct especially for the present generation. Planning of the content and creating it by the subject experts will ensure credibility.