INTRODUCTION OF PEER LEARNING AMONG I MBBS STUDENTS

Abstract

BACK-GROUND : Peer learning is a potentially powerful way of sharing knowledge and is not a single undifferentiated
educational strategy. The term “Peer learning' suggests a two-way reciprocal learning activity. In a simple way it can be
described as a way of moving beyond independence to interdependence or mutual learning. As a part of Medical Education , peer learning was
introduced to a group of I MBBS students (2018-2019) at Government Medical College, Omandurar Government Estate,Chennai-2 for a period
of four weeks in the month of June 2019.
AIM OF THE STUDY: To introduce peer learning among I MBBS students and also to evaluate the usefulness of peer-learning and to identify
it`s barrier.
METHODS: Quasi-experimental study design.
INCLUSION CRITERIA:
Students of dissection Tables I and III of I MBBS 2018-2019 batch.
Those who consent to participate in the study.
The peer leaders were given instructions to read a concerned topic through whatsapp message, subsequently, were asked to discuss the instructed
topic with the peer team members, twice a week . The task of peer-learning was continued for 4 weeks. A post-interventional assessment test was
conducted. In the end , students were requested to fill feed- back.
RESULTS : The marks of the study and control group were evaluated and results were interpreted.
CONCLUSIONS: Interaction and participation among peers also improved. Peer students got a wide vision of medical facts. Better clarity and
understanding of subject was achieved. Peer students had an opportunity to analyze and perceive knowledge at their wavelength.