Journal of Education and Health Promotion

Medical students’ perceptions of the educational environment in a private medical school in Southwest Nigeria

. Oluwatosin O. Oguntoye

Volume 13, Issue 2 , February 2023, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The educational environment plays a very important role in determining the overallperformance of students. The aim of this study is to determine the perceptions of undergraduatemedical ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The educational environment plays a very important role in determining the overallperformance of students. The aim of this study is to determine the perceptions of undergraduatemedical students about their educational environment in a Nigerian university.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was an observational, cross‑sectional study conducted amongfinal‑year (600 level) undergraduate medical students. The Dundee Ready Education EnvironmentMeasure (DREEM) questionnaire was used for the study to assess the educational environment ofthe medical students.RESULTS: A total number of 100 final‑year (600 level) undergraduate medical students participated inthe study, out of which 27 (27.0%) were males and 73 (73.0%) were females with a male‑to‑female ratioof 0.37 to 1. The age range of the respondents was 21–30 years with a mean (±SD) of 23.54 (±1.403).The total mean DREEM score was 116.2/200. The total score of SPL domain was 30.2/48 (62.9%).The total score of SPT domain was 27.3/44 (62.0%), while that of SASP was 19.2/32 (60.0%). Thetotal score of SPA domain was 26.6/48 (55.4%) and that of SSP was 13.1/28 (46.8%). For the SPL,SPT, SASP, and SPA domains, the score was above 50%. However, for the SSP domain the scorewas less than 50%.CONCLUSIONS: The total mean DREEM score in this study was 116.2/200, more positives thannegatives, with the students’ social perspective having the least domain score. There is a need toprovide adequate social support system for medical students in general and particularly for thosewho get stressed.

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Perception of Nepalese nursing students toward E‑learning in Nepal

. Nikita Das†; . Gautam P. Chaudhary†; . Sima Yadav; . Usha Yadav; . Asha K. Yadav; . Sabina Chaudhary; . Jitendra Pandey

Volume 13, Issue 2 , February 2023, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: E‑learning is the delivery of learning and training through digital resources. Althoughe‑learning is based on formalized learning, it is provided through computers, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: E‑learning is the delivery of learning and training through digital resources. Althoughe‑learning is based on formalized learning, it is provided through computers, tablets, and evencellular phones those are connected to the Internet. This makes it easy for users to learn anytime,anywhere, with few, if any restrictions.MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was done, and data was obtained throughan online survey method from September 14, 2020 to October 08, 2020. Questions were created in“Google Forms.” The targeted population was all nursing students from all over Nepal. There werea total of 365 respondents. A pilot study was done on 10 students. After the pilot study, the samequestion was distributed to all the respondents.RESULTS: Almost half (40.8%) got disturbed in their online class because of electricity; around half ofthe respondents (41.9%) are disturbed in their online class because of Internet problems. Moreover,around half of the respondents (44.4%) use the data pack daily, and 38.6% use the data sometimes.CONCLUSION: The study concludes that most students suffered from Internet disturbance andelectricity problems during online classes. Because of electricity and Internet problems, most studentsfeel anxious during class, and most of the students are not able to attend classes. Most studentsare compelled to use data packs for online classes. However, the course may not be completed ifthe problems arising during online classes are not solved.

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A comparison of physiotherapy students’ perception about blended learning with online learning during COVID‑19 pandemic: A mixed method of study

. Narasimman Swaminathan; . Latha Ravichandran; . Sivakumar Ramachandran; . Steve Milanese

Volume 12, Issue 9 , October 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 pandemic has affected face‑to‑face teaching across the globe.The sudden shift in learning methods has impacted learning experiences significantly. Students’perception ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 pandemic has affected face‑to‑face teaching across the globe.The sudden shift in learning methods has impacted learning experiences significantly. Students’perception about online compared to blended learning might affect learning. The objective of thisstudy was to evaluate physiotherapy students’ perception of blended compared to online learning.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This mixed‑method study documents physiotherapy students’ perceptionabout the courses delivered through blended learning (BL) mode during the COVID‑19 pandemic.Physiotherapy graduates and postgraduate students who completed their evidence‑based physiotherapypractice courses at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai (N = 68)participated in this study. The participants’ perceived experience about synchronous online mode andBL during the pandemic was assessed using a questionnaire and focus group discussion.RESULTS: All the participants felt that the course outcomes were met and that they gained knowledgeand skills in evidence‑based practice. Most of the students (93%) recommended a blended mode oflearning compared to online learning alone. Thematic analysis of the focus group discussion (FGD)identified enhanced learning experience, collaborative learning as enablers to BL, and availabilityof gadgets and quality of online contents as barriers.CONCLUSION: Participants showed par preference for blended learning over online learning as itprovided flexibility and facilitated active learning compared to online learning alone.

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Faculty perspectives of small group teaching experience in medical school in Tamil Nadu

. Sasikumar S; . Devaki P R; . RenukaDevi M R

Volume 12, Issue 6 , July 2022, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The small group teaching (SGT) is gaining popularity in medical education since it improves the student’s thinking capacity and aids knowledge retention. Several ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The small group teaching (SGT) is gaining popularity in medical education since it improves the student’s thinking capacity and aids knowledge retention. Several studies have been conducted to analyze students’ attitudes regarding SGT. Faculty, on the other hand, have mixed perception about SGT methodology. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to explore medical faculties’ perceptions of SGT effectiveness in the medical curriculum.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Across‑sectional, descriptive survey was conducted among 50 medical college teachers. We have developed set of 12 questionnaires to assess the perception of teachers on SGT methods. Content validation of the survey questionnaire was done by Lawshe method, and Cronbach’s alpha was calculated for estimating the internal consistency. Teacher’s perception responses were presented as proportion and percentage. We performed principal component analysis, structural equation modelling, Chi‑squared test (χ2/df), goodness‑of‑fit index (GFI), adjusted GFI, comparative fit index, and root mean square error of approximation.RESULTS: The validation resulted in the 12 items model indicated superior goodness of fit for sample data. All the extracted factors had good internal consistency of >0.9. Majority of the teachers strongly agreed that the SGT method enhances the student intrinsic motivation (n = 42, 84%), self‑confidence (n = 40, 80%) self‑directed learning (n = 35, 70%), and student teacher interaction (n = 38, 76%).CONCLUSION: Teaching faculties’ perception reflected that SGT is an effective method to impart knowledge to the students and also helps in improving their understanding of their subject. It helps in developing intrinsic motivation to do self‑learning in the students. It also helps in developing good peer interaction and improves the communication skills.

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Perception of educational environment as a predictor of academic performance in physiotherapy students

. Manasi Desai; . Unnati Pandit; . Amruta Nerurkar; . Chhaya Verma

Volume 12, Issue 5 , June 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Students’ perception of their academic environment has a substantial influenceon their actions, academic accomplishments, satisfaction, goal attainment, and behavior. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Students’ perception of their academic environment has a substantial influenceon their actions, academic accomplishments, satisfaction, goal attainment, and behavior. The studywas carried out to evaluate the perception of academic environment in physiotherapy students, andto identify the specific domains which could act as predictors of academic performance.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This descriptive, cross-sectional research was conductedover 12 months using total population sampling. Three hundred and forty-three (139 postgraduateand 204 final year) final year and postgraduate physiotherapy students from five colleges ofMumbai and Navi Mumbai, who conformed to the inclusion benchmarks, participated in the study.Perception of educational environment was evaluated using Dundee Ready Education EnvironmentMeasure (DREEM). Academic performance was evaluated using the percentage obtained in thelast university examination. Data were entered in MS Excel (©Microsoft, USA) and converted toStata Version 15.1© StataCorp, College Station, for further analysis. The mean values and standarddeviations for perception of educational environment were calculated and linear regression modelswere used to conduct multivariate analysis for each item in the questionnaire.RESULTS: The mean total DREEM score of physiotherapy students was 129.97 ± 22.72. Studentswhose Students’ Academic Self‑perception scores were in the “Feeling more on the positive side”category showed a 4.17 point increase in percentage scores as compared with those who reportedfeeling like a total failure/had many negative aspects to their academic self‑perception (95% confidenceinterval [CI]: 2.46, 5.89; P < 0.001). Students whose Students’ Perception of Learning (SPoL) scoreswere in the “Teaching highly thought of” category showed a 2.75 point increase in percentage scoresas compared with those who viewed teaching poorly/negatively (95% CI: 0.44, 5.06; P = 0.02).CONCLUSION: Physiotherapy students had a “more positive than negative” view of the academicenvironment; however, a few “problematic areas” need to be remediated. Efforts to improve students’academic self-perception may improve their academic performance since this was the strongestpredictor of their academic performance, followed by total DREEM scores and SPoL.

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Explaining medical students’ perceptions of asynchronous virtual education in the COVID‑19 pandemic: A qualitative study

. Roghieh Sodeify; . Zeinab Habibpour; . Masoumeh Akbarbegloo

Volume 12, Issue 4 , April 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: With the unintended closure of classrooms following the outbreak of COVID‑19, the virtual education method is used as an alternative to face‑to‑face education. ...  Read More INTRODUCTION: With the unintended closure of classrooms following the outbreak of COVID‑19, the virtual education method is used as an alternative to face‑to‑face education. Virtual education is one of the important factors in promoting the learning of medical students and has many benefits such as increasing the ability of critical thinking, problem‑solving skills, and self‑directed learning. However, critically examining students’ perceptions of e‑learning can help improve quality and better planning.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This research was a qualitative study. Twelve students were enrolled in the study based on purposive sampling. Data were collected using in‑depth semi‑structured interviews in 2020. All interviews were recorded and then transcribed and analyzed using a continuous comparison and conventional content analysis approach.RESULTS: Data analysis revealed four main themes and ten subthemes. The main themes included “student concern,” “teacher barriers,” “technology weakness,” and “asynchronous virtual learning flexibility.”CONCLUSION: Asynchronous e‑learning in the COVID‑19 outbreak had its advantages and disadvantages. By analyzing students’ perceptions in this field, some better designs and planning can be done to increase the quality of education.

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Perception of e‑learning in medical students and faculty during COVID time: A study based on a questionnaire‑based survey

. Sandip Meghnad Hulke; . Santosh L. Wakode; . Avinash E. Thakare; . Rachna Parashar; . Rajay N. Bharshnakar; . Ankur Joshi; . Yuganti P. Vaidya

Volume 12, Issue 4 , April 2022, , Pages 1-11

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: With the emergence of COVID, we are forced to use e‑learning in form of arranging online classes for students. Medical educators all over the world are conducting ...  Read More BACKGROUND: With the emergence of COVID, we are forced to use e‑learning in form of arranging online classes for students. Medical educators all over the world are conducting online classes for students. This study aimed to evaluate the perception of online learning among MBBS students and teachers through a questionnaire‑based survey.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was done in the AIIMS, Bhopal. The study was based on questionnaire (online Google form) response received from 43 number of faculty and 156 number of students.STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Chi‑square test and unpaired t‑test were used for statistical analysis using statistical software Systac 13.2.RESULTS: Handling software, technical issues, and lack of face‑to‑face interaction were more significant problems in students compared to faculty. The desire for the social site which causes disturbances in learning was a significant problem in the students compared to faculty. Giving and taking assessment problem was reported by 60% and 63.8% of faculty and students, respectively (P = 0.67). Both groups preferred the Google Classroom platform (P = 0.16). Students (65.3%) preferred audiovisual recording, while faculty (72%) preferred PowerPoint with narration. PowerPoint presentation without narration was the least preferred (10.8%). Both groups stressed the importance of training (P = 0.17) and infrastructure development (P = 0.85). Students, as well as faculty, strongly discouraged e‑learning for practical/clinical teaching.CONCLUSIONS: Students, as well as faculty, have mixed reactions toward e‑learning. Most importantly affected in the present scenario is practical/clinical teaching and assessment. Every attempt needs to be done to strengthen infrastructure and impart training to students and faculty.

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Risk Perception in the COVID‑19 pandemic; a health promotion approach

. Maryam Feiz Arefi; . Amin Pouya Babaei; . Somaye Barzanouni; . Sahar Ebrahimi; . Amir Reza Salehi; . Farahnaz Khajehnasiri; . Mohsen Poursadeghian

Volume 12, Issue 4 , April 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Many measures have been taken so far to minimize the outbreak of COVID‑19, but it is still unclear to what extent people have understood the risk. Public participation ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Many measures have been taken so far to minimize the outbreak of COVID‑19, but it is still unclear to what extent people have understood the risk. Public participation plays a vital role in better and effective control of the coronavirus, and the importance of risk perception is effective in their preventive behavior. The aim of this study was to investigate the pandemic risk perception of coronavirus disease after began of pandemic in Iranian society.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was conducted in Iran in spring 2020. The data collection tool was a researcher‑made questionnaire. The questions were extracted through interviews with experts and summarizing the opinions of public interviews, etc., The questionnaire was made available to the public through social media. The information was collected within 3 months. Quantitative data were reported as mean ± standard deviation and the qualitative data were reported as number and percent. Multiple linear regression and cross were also used to examine the demographic factors associated with risk perception. Data Analysis was performed using the SPSS version 21 statistical software.RESULTS: In this study, 402 individuals from 28 provinces (Azarbaijan Gharbi, Azarbaijan Sharghi, Alborz, Ardabil, Bushehr, Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, Esfahan, Fars, Ghazvin, Gilan, Golestan, Hamedan, Hormozgan, Ilam, Kerman, Kermanshah, Khorasan Razavi, Khorasan Shomali, Khuzestan, Kohgiluyeh and Boyerahmad, Kurdistan, Lorestan, Mazandaran, Semnan, Sistan and Baluchestan, Tehran, Yazd, and Zanjan) of Iran participated. The risk perception score obtained from the sum of the scores of the questions was classified into quartiles. Accordingly, the risk perception score of (22.9) 92 people was very low, (26.6) 107 people low, (26.9) 108 people moderate, and (23.6) 95 people high. The results of multiple linear regression showed that the variables of gender (P = 0.008) and occupation (P = 0.013) had a significant relationship with risk perception. There was no significant relationship between risk perception and variables of age, marital status, and level of education (P > 0.05).CONCLUSION: The study showed that the risk perception of the people is more in categories of moderate to high. Assessing the risk perception of a pandemic can be helpful for preventive measurements and planning, and also, according to the results of the research, can be done appropriate educational interventions. Given that 47.5% of respondents were employees, of course, it should be noted that in sending a questionnaire virtually, there is usually a lot of loss and this is a limitation of the research. The results of this study can be useful in making prevention decisions and maintaining safety and health in the workplace.

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Influence of knowledge on Brazilian student’s perception of life and clinical classes during COVID‑19

. Fernanda de Souza e Silva Ramos; . Laryssa de Castro Oliveira; . Diego Felipe Mardegan Gonçalves; . Rafael Santos Rocha; . Eduardo Bresciani; . Ticiane Cestari Fagundes

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The current pandemic associated with SARS‑CoV‑2 has negatively influenced several activities, including teaching in Operative Dentistry. The aim of this study was ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The current pandemic associated with SARS‑CoV‑2 has negatively influenced several activities, including teaching in Operative Dentistry. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of knowledge in Operative Dentistry on undergraduate students’ perception related to personal life and return to clinical practices classes during pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present research was a cross‑sectional, observational, and qualitative survey. The 16‑item based questionnaire was sent to undergraduate students in 2020, which were divided into two groups, according to the Operative Dentistry knowledge: G1‑not started clinical practice; G2‑already started or completed clinical practice. Questions were focused on the impact of the pandemic in relation to their personal lives and return to clinical practice classes. Chi‑square association test was performed using the SigmaPlot 12.0 software (P ≤ 0.05).RESULTS: The response rate was 55.5% for G1 and 44.4% for G2. Regarding the questions related to personal life, G1 demonstrated higher percentages of fear of contracting the virus during theoretical classes. Same observations were found when students answered about their fear of contracting coronavirus during the clinical practice classes. However, G2 presented the highest agreement responses for the preparedness feeling to return to theoretical classroom, clinical practice classes, and the possibility of applying online learning.CONCLUSIONS: In general, students’ knowledge had little influence on perception of personal life. However, students who have more knowledge in operative dentistry presented more security about returning to clinical classes.

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Inventory development to assess perceptions and metacognition of dental students toward learning in colleges in Pune, India

. Shruti P. Nair; . Sahana Hegde Shetiya; . Deepti Agarwal; . Ladusingh Rajpurohit

Volume 12, Issue 1 , January 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Dental education is considered a challenging and taxing program as on successfulcompletion one is required to attain unique and diverse competencies. There is an establishedperception ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Dental education is considered a challenging and taxing program as on successfulcompletion one is required to attain unique and diverse competencies. There is an establishedperception that students do not enjoy their experiences in the dental institution and they alwaysdemand for certain amendments. Therefore, a dental education perceptions and metacognitionassessment tool (DEPMAT) was developed for Indian undergraduate and postgraduate dentalstudents for assessing their learning in Deemed University versus Maharashtra University of HealthSciences in Pune, Maharashtra.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was conducted among students of fourdental colleges of two types of universities in Pune, India, using a 31‑item DEPMAT based onDundee Ready Education Environment Measure and metacognition awareness inventory using fivesubscales. Psychometric properties were also tested for this new tool. Data were analyzed usingthe SPSS software.RESULTS: Of 512 participants, 498 (96.88%) students had duly returned the questionnaire.Cronbach’s alpha coefficient value for reliability was found to be 0.87 which indicated good internalconsistency and test‑retest reliability was found to be kw = 0.76, which indicated substantial agreement.Significant difference was found among undergraduates in domains regarding their perception towardacademics, infrastructure and learning environment, and health and stress.CONCLUSION: This study suggested that the general perception toward learning among final yearpostgraduate students was positive in both the universities. However, the perception of final yearundergraduates toward learning was negative and students have suggested certain amendments inboth the universities. This study also suggested the new tool was effective in assessing the attitudeof practice of both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

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Perception and factors affecting practice of preventive measures of coronavirus disease among nurses in tertiary health institutions in Anambra state, southeast Nigeria

. Linda C. Odikpo; . Vera I. Onyekaonwu; . Anulika J. Afonne

Volume 11, Issue 11 , December 2021, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 is a contagious disease without any treatment, vaccine, or immunity,which the only way out is the practice of preventive measures. This article assessed the perceptionand ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 is a contagious disease without any treatment, vaccine, or immunity,which the only way out is the practice of preventive measures. This article assessed the perceptionand factors influencing the practice of preventive measures to COVID‑19 among nurses in AnambraState, Nigeria. The study objectives include to determine the perception of nurses toward COVID‑19and to determine factors that influence the practice of preventive measures to COVID‑19 amongnurses in tertiary hospitals in Anambra State.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The design for the study was descriptive cross‑sectional surveyconducted among 344 nurses in the two tertiary institutions.RESULTS: Three hundred and three (88.1%) nurses had no formal training on COVID‑19 protocol.They have a good perception of the disease as, among others, they (165 [48.0%]) see it to be highlycontagious, 207 (60.2%) can recognize symptoms easily, 168 (48.8%) believed that COVID‑19 couldbe handled professionally based on their experience, 155 (45.1%) responded that there is no vaccineyet for the disease, and 200 (58.1%) responded that patients should not hide their symptoms and travelhistory to avoid infecting other people. The result on the false benefits has 323 (93.9%) who respondedthat COVID‑19 preventive measures will predispose one to the disease, 319 (92.7%) who respondedthat the preventive measures will not slow the spread of the disease, 288 (83.7) who respondedthat it is independent of normalcy returning to areas affected, and 327 (95.1%) who responded thatCOVID‑19 preventive measures are among the effective ways to mitigate the disease and enhancelife sustainability. Some work‑related/institutional and disease‑specific factors influence their practiceof preventive measures to COVID‑19. Such factors include the time to use personal protectiveequipment (PPE) in an emergency (170 [49.4%]), remembering to use PPE (158 [45.9%]), insufficientnursing staff during a shift (158 [43.0%]), and too many responsibilities during a shift (178 [51.7%]).CONCLUSION: With the increasing death as a result of COVID‑19, of which health workers are notimmune to, it is essential to annihilate all negative factors that may impede the accurate practicesof the preventive measures and also support the nurses with the necessary tools and knowledge tomitigate their exposure to the disease.

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Perception about myths and facts regarding COVID‑19 pandemic infection among science and technology faculties

. Sarika Dakhode; . Ajay Chaware; . Pramita Muntode; . Abhishek Ingole; . Abhishek Joshi

Volume 11, Issue 7 , August 2021, , Pages 1-10

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID-19 was declared as pandemic by the WHO in March 2020. Social distancingand hand hygiene is advised during the pandemic to contain the spread of the virus. Rapid sharingof ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID-19 was declared as pandemic by the WHO in March 2020. Social distancingand hand hygiene is advised during the pandemic to contain the spread of the virus. Rapid sharingof scientific information in an extraordinary way is the characteristic of the COVID-19 pandemic.There may be gap between information provided and received. Perception and practices in thecommunity regarding handling materials need to be pointed out. the aim of this study was to assessthe perception about myths and facts and change in the practices before and during the COVID-19pandemic among the faculties.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted during May–June 2020among the faculties of Science and Technology. By multistage sampling technique, five districts fromMaharashtra state and then one institution from each district was selected. A questionnaire was sharedby Internet to institutional faculties. Descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-square test) is applied.RESULTS: Out of 276 faculties, 248 had responded. Most of the faculties were aware about basicpreventive measures for COVID-19 infection. However, 25% of the faculties were unaware aboutthe safe physical distance. Eating garlic and pepper protect against COVID-19 as per 63 (25.3%)and 59 (23.9%) faculties, respectively, was effective, whereas 56.8% of participants did not believeso. 93 (37.5%) respondents believed that respiratory function ultimately indicates the presenceor absence of disease. About 95% of participants adopted new hygienic practices during thepandemic (P < 0.0001).CONCLUSION: COVID-19 can spread rapidly if the basic preventive measures are ignored by thesmall proportion of unaware people Hence, awareness needs to be improved. People have adaptedto new hygienic practices for handling the material during the pandemic.

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Awareness, perception, and mitigating measures on COVID‑19: Do we still need to educate our masses on COVID‑19?

. Mukesh Bairwa; . Rajesh Kumar; . Poonam Yadav; . Yogesh Bahurupi; . Ravi Kant

Volume 11, Issue 6 , July 2021, , Pages 1-10

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 was declared an emergency of international concern by the World HealthOrganization in 2020. This study assesses patients’ awareness, perception, and mitigating ...  Read More BACKGROUND: COVID‑19 was declared an emergency of international concern by the World HealthOrganization in 2020. This study assesses patients’ awareness, perception, and mitigating measurestaken during the COVID‑19 outbreak visiting an apex tertiary health‑care center in North India.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was conducted between September 15,2020, and November 15, 2020, in a tertiary care public hospital, North India, using a structuredself‑administered questionnaire. The survey included 809 patients using a consecutive samplingstrategy. The self‑structured and prevalidated questionnaire was used to collect information onstudy variables. Chi‑square test and independent samples t‑test, followed by binary and multivariatelogistic regression, was used to determine the factors associated with awareness toward COVID‑19.RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 32.41 (±11.24) years. Multivariate logistic regressionshows that married participants (OR: 0.660, 95 % CI: 0.440-0.989, P= 0.044), reading books/magazine or attended institutional lectures (OR: 2.241, 95% CI: 1.545–3.249, P = 0.001), and watchingtelevision and radio (OR: 1.824, 95% CI: 1.283–2.592, P = 0.001) are significantly more aware thantheir counterparts. Participants with higher income group (>20,000 Indian rupee) significantly hadhigher awareness than participants having salary <10,000 rupees (OR: 0.280, 95% CI: 0.178–0.440,P = 0.001) or 10,001–20,000 rupees (OR: 0.481, 95% CI: 0.297–0.777, P = 0.003). Patientsavoiding traveling across or abroad had significantly much reasonably good awareness than theircounterparts (OR: 0.357, 95% CI: 0.139–0.918, P = 0.033).CONCLUSIONS: Participants demonstrated good awareness, encouraging perception, and compliedwith appropriate mitigating measures during the outbreak. Considering frequent waves and thepandemic’s long duration, consistent reinforcement of government measures, including masks,maintaining social distance, and frequent handwashing, is much needed.

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Entry level nursing graduate students’ perception and readiness toward online component of blended learning: A mixed method study

. Narasimman Swaminathan; . Latha Ravichandran; . Sivakumar Ramachandran; . Steve Milanese; . Rajeswari Singaravelu; . Pitchaimani Govindaraj

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Blended learning (BL), the integration of online with face to face teaching, isestablished as a teaching method in higher education. Understanding the learner’s readinesstoward ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Blended learning (BL), the integration of online with face to face teaching, isestablished as a teaching method in higher education. Understanding the learner’s readinesstoward online component of BL is important in designing and delivering BL. Nursing students requireproficiency in interpersonal relationship and social interaction apart from knowledge and skills. BLmay provide an opportunity to acquire the professional skills better than the traditional face to facesessions. The objectives of this study were to identify the nursing student’s readiness toward BLand perceptions about the online learning component of BL.MATERIALS AND METHODS: First‑ and second‑year entry level graduate nursing students of SriRamachandra Institute of Higher Education, Chennai, India, were the participants of the study. Thisstudy used a mixed method approach. An online questionnaire, developed based on the literatureand expert consensus, was used in the first phase. A focus group discussion (FGD) with ten randomparticipants of the survey was conducted to understand the perceptions and readiness to adopt the onlinecomponent of BL. The present study was conducted from December 2019 to January 2020. Surveyresults were analyzed through descriptively. Content analysis was carried to summarize FGD results.RESULTS: A total 158 students of entry level nursing graduate programme participated in the survey.53.8% of felt BL will have positive effect on their learning and 70% of the respondents were readyto adopt BL. The FGD identified two themes: (I) Readiness to adopt online learning as a componentof BL and (II) perceived barriers and challenges in adopting online contents.CONCLUSION: Entry level nursing graduate students had a positive perception about the onlinecomponents. Majority of them are confident in accessing the online contents. Willingness to learnthrough online, previous experience with online learning, and perceived advantages of onlinecomponent might influence the learner’s readiness. Availability of internet and absence of teacherswere perceived as the barriers to online learning by the participants.

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Introduction of structured feedback for MBBS students: Perception of students and faculty

. Himashree Bhattacharyya; . Jayant Vagha; . Gajendra Kumar Medhi; . Star Pala; . Happy Chutia; . Parash Jyoti Bora; . Vizovonuo Visi

Volume 10, Issue 10 , October 2020, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: Feedback is an important part of the assessment process. However, one‑to‑onestructured and constructive feedback to the students is not practiced mostly due to lack ...  Read More INTRODUCTION: Feedback is an important part of the assessment process. However, one‑to‑onestructured and constructive feedback to the students is not practiced mostly due to lack of practiceand feasibility issues. The present study was conducted to understand the perception of studentsand faculty toward one‑to‑one structured feedback.METHODOLOGY: All the 3rd MBBS professional students were included in the study. An orientationwas given to the faculty regarding the importance of feedback and how to give structured feedback.A standardized format was provided to the faculty for providing the feedback to the students. Aftercompletion of the assessments, a one‑to‑one structured verbal feedback was given to all thestudents. Thereafter, faculty and student’s perception on the feedback process was obtained throughquestionnaires. A focused group discussion was also conducted among the students.RESULTS: A total of 42 students participated in the study out of 50. A positive response was receivedfrom all the students regarding the feedback. Nearly84.34% of the students acknowledged thatfeedback is important for understanding their mistakes, 92.84% of the students responded positivelythat feedback helps to build a good rapport with the teacher, and 92.85% of the students reportedthat they were satisfied with the overall experience of receiving feedback. Most of the faculty (80%)perceived that giving feedback after the assessment was a good idea. The faculty felt motivatedto give feedback to the students after the hands‑on experience. However, only 20% of the facultyagreed that the process of feedback was easy to carry out (mean score: 2.2 ± 1.09).CONCLUSION: The positive responses received from both the students and the faculty highlightthat the students are receptive toward feedback provided it is structured, constructive, and helpsthem to achieve their learning goals.

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Promoting patients health in intensive care units by family members and nurses: A literature review

. Naiemeh Seyedfatemi; . Nooredin Mohammadi; . Sima Hashemi

Volume 10, Issue 5 , May 2020, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Hospitalization in intensive care units (ICUs) can cause physiological andpsychological challenges for patients and their family members. Using a family‑centered approachin ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Hospitalization in intensive care units (ICUs) can cause physiological andpsychological challenges for patients and their family members. Using a family‑centered approachin provision of visiting hours promotes the health of patients. The purpose of this study is to reviewthe perception of nurses and family members of patients in ICUs about visiting their patients.METHODOLOGY: The published articles in the last 10 years from 2008 to 2018 on the perception ofnurses and family members of patients in critical care units about visiting their patients searched forin databases including ScienceDirect, PubMed, Cochrane, Google Scholar, SID, Scopus, CINAHL,OVID, IRANDOC, and Magiran using keywords “family members perception,” “nurses’ perception,”“intensive care units,” and “visiting” in English and Farsi, and finally, 15 articles were selected.RESULTS: Results showed that nurses do not have appropriate viewpoint about visiting patients inICUs, and they discussed and outlined the barriers of visiting patients given the benefits of familymembers’ presence.CONCLUSION: There are several limitations on the process of family members visiting their patientsin the ICUs. It is essential to modify the nurses’ attitudes and remove the organizational limitationsin this area.

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Medical research: Perception and barriers to its practice among medical school students of Chennai

. Vinoth Gnana Chellaiyan; . Aravind Manoharan; . M. Jasmine; . Fasna Liaquathali

Volume 9, Issue 7 , July 2019, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Knowledge of medical students about research has been little explored. Althoughthere has been a practice of medical research among undergraduate level, the practice is not ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Knowledge of medical students about research has been little explored. Althoughthere has been a practice of medical research among undergraduate level, the practice is not universaland there have been potential barriers and difficulties in carrying out the research. The present studywas done to find the perception and attitude toward medical research and to assess the practicesand potential barriers in carrying out medical research.METHODOLOGY: This cross‑sectional study was conducted among 344 medical school studentsof a medical college in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, in 2018. Systematic random sampling was used.The study tool was self‑administered questionnaire including questions on knowledge, barrier, and5‑point Likert scale for assessing attitude. Adequate knowledge (>70% correct answers) and positiveattitude (>25 score) were considered.RESULTS: Among the 344 study participants, only 127 (36.9%) of students had adequate knowledgeand 68 (19.8%) had positive attitude toward medical research. Regarding practice of research, only34.3% had conducted a research and only 17.4% had published in journals. Difficulty in choosingtopic, difficulty in collecting data, and allocation of time amidst academic activities were considered asa barrier by 41.6%, 40.7%, and 45.9%, respectively. Association of adequate knowledge and practicewas statistically significant for age (P = 0.000), gender (P = 0.000), and academic year (P = 0.000).CONCLUSION: Adequate knowledge and positive attitude were lacking in majority of students.Barriers could be addressed by support programs and sensitization toward research.

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The undergraduate medical student’s perception of professional mentorship: Results from a developing nation’s medical school

. Adeyi A. Adoga; . Daniel D. Kokong; . Nuhu K. Dakum; . Nuhu D. Ma’an; . Andrew A. Iduh; . Emoche T. Okwori; . John P. Yaro

Volume 9, Issue 3 , March 2019, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: There are no documented formal mentoring programs for medical students inNigeria. This study aims to determine the perception of undergraduate medical students at theUniversity ...  Read More INTRODUCTION: There are no documented formal mentoring programs for medical students inNigeria. This study aims to determine the perception of undergraduate medical students at theUniversity of Jos on professional mentorship, with a view to informing University authorities oncreating and developing a mentoring program.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study conducted in December 2017 in whichself‑administered questionnaires were distributed among the sixth‑year medical students in aUniversity in North‑Central Nigeria, eliciting information regarding biodemographic data, knowledgeof and experiences with mentoring, desired benefits of mentoring, and the willingness to participatein a mentoring relationship. Data collected was analyzed with EPI Info statistical software®version 7.2.1 (EPI Info, Center for Disease Control, Atlanta, Georgia, 2017).RESULTS: In a class of 166, the response rate was 83.5%. Mean age = 27.4 years; standarddeviation = ±2.6 with a male: female ratio of 1.9:1. Moderate knowledge of mentoring was reportedby 47 (44.3%). Attitude toward mentoring was very positive in 23.6%. One hundred and four (98.1%)students agreed mentoring are effective in developing potential. Nearly 95.3% agreed a mentorshipprogram would benefit medical students with 70.8% expressing high willingness to participate. A weakpositive statistical correlation between the age of students and those who expressed willingness toparticipate was recorded (r = 0.04; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.6–1.16; and P = 0.05).CONCLUSION: Sixth‑year medical students of the University of Jos have a moderate knowledgeof and a good attitude toward mentorship. The implementation of a formal mentoring program formedical students at the University of Jos is strongly recommended.

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The effect of team‑based learning on public health students’ educational outcomes

. Fatemeh Rajati; . Gholamreza Sharifirad; . Maryam Babakhani; . Siamak Mohebi

Volume 8, Issue 11 , November 2018, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The educational environment has been confirmed as crucial factor for activelearning. Team‑based learning (TBL) is an interactive teaching method which improves students’perceptions ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The educational environment has been confirmed as crucial factor for activelearning. Team‑based learning (TBL) is an interactive teaching method which improves students’perceptions and performance.OBJECTIVES: The comparison of the team‑based learning method through lecture‑based approachon health education curriculum in public health studentsMETHODS: A quasi‑experimental study was conducted among 23 public health students of bachelordegree and 14 public health students of associate degree to teach communication and HealthEducation in Qom University of Medical Sciences from January 2015 to Jun 2016. Students ofbachelor degree selected TBL and students of associate degree preferred the traditional lecture‑basedmethod. In the current study, educational outcomes were defined as educational environmentand academic performance. At the last session of the semester, the educational environment andacademic performance of both groups were evaluated. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 20.0using Chi‑square and Mann–Whitney test.RESULTS: The mean and standard deviation of individual test score between the two groups showedsignificant difference based on Mann–Whitney results (P = 0.036). The mean of final examination scorein TBL group was significantly higher than the traditional lecture group (P < 0.021, Mann–Whitney).Our findings showed that in TBL group, 78.3% of students’ perceptions were in very favorablecondition while it was only 28.6% for students of the traditional method.CONCLUSIONS: TBL method improves students’ perceptions about each area of educationalatmosphere and also provides opportunities to innovate which lead to active teamwork amonglearners, and it can effectively enhance students’ academic performance.

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Pharmacy students’ perception and inclination toward scholarly research publications: A multinational study

. Akshaya Srikanth Bhagavathula; . Deepak Kumar Bandari; . Shazia Qasim Jamshed; . Vijay Kumar Chattu

Volume 8, Issue 10 , October 2018, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Scholarly research experiences during student life can make pharmacy studentscapable of reaching the pinnacle of triumph with scientific skills.AIM: The aim of this study ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Scholarly research experiences during student life can make pharmacy studentscapable of reaching the pinnacle of triumph with scientific skills.AIM: The aim of this study is to assess the perception of pharmacy students and their inclinationtoward scholarly research publications.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional web‑based survey was conducted among pharmacystudents across India, Malaysia, and Pakistan. A 21‑item questionnaire was distributed throughdifferent social networking sites between July and September 2016. Descriptive and Chi‑square testswere used to analyze the findings. A value of P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.RESULTS: Of 543 pharmacy students approached, 348 participants from India, Pakistan, andMalaysia were included giving a response rate of 64%. The study comprises 48.5% of males and51.4% of females, studying a bachelor of pharmacy (44.5%), and from private institutions (94%).Nearly, three‑fourths (76.4%) of the students had no publications but showed high interest towardoriginal research (87.4%). Most of the participants cited the reasons to engage in the scholarlypublication is too advanced research/share findings (74.1%), and to improve writing and researchskills (73.6%). Further, a significant percentage of students agreed that contributing to the literatureduring student life as a valuable experience and publishing will provide them with personal fulfilment.CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that most of the pharmacy students had positive perceptionstoward scholarly research activities to advance research and improve their writing research skills.We recommend the pharmacy schools to incorporate scholarly activities in the curriculum to embarkresearch‑inclusive career.

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Breastfeeding awareness and perception among antenatal mothers: A cross‑sectional study in urban slum population of Bhubaneswar, Odisha

. Ipsa Mohapatra; . Adrija Roy

Volume 8, Issue 5 , May 2018, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: Breast milk provides nutritional, immunological, behavioral, and economic benefitsand helps to build mother‑infant bonding. Antenatal mothers need to be sufficiently ...  Read More INTRODUCTION: Breast milk provides nutritional, immunological, behavioral, and economic benefitsand helps to build mother‑infant bonding. Antenatal mothers need to be sufficiently aware about thebenefits of breastfeeding.OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to assess the awareness and perception of breastfeedingamong antenatal mothers and to find out any association between sociodemographic factors andbreastfeeding awareness.METHODOLOGY: A cross‑sectional study was conducted among 250 antenatal women residing in theurban slums of field‑practice area of urban health and training center; using a predesigned, pretested,semi‑structured interview schedule. Antenatal checkup followed by one to one counseling for thewomen regarding breastfeeding was provided. Data were represented by frequencies, proportions,and associations using Chi‑square, and the P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS: Most (55.6%) of the women were in the age group of 18–24 years. The mean age atmarriage was 19.2 ± 2.5 years. 81.2% of them were Hindus, 13.2% had adequate, 49.6% hadmoderately adequate, whereas 37.2% women had inadequate awareness about breastfeeding.About 100% intended to breastfeed their children, but only 64% said that they intended to exclusivelybreastfeed. 66.4% knew about the importance of colostrum. Age‑group, religion, literacy, occupation,type of family, gravida, and number of antenatal visits showed highly significant (P < 0.001) associationwith awareness of breastfeeding.CONCLUSION: Nearly one‑third of the antenatal mothers lacked awareness on breastfeedingpractices. Although all intended to breastfeed, still only 64% knew about exclusive breastfeeding.These gaps need to be addressed by awareness generation activities during antenatal counseling.

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Medical students’ perceptions of small group teaching effectiveness in hybrid curriculum

. Pradeep Kumar Sahu; . Shivananda Nayak; . Vincent Rodrigues

Volume 8, Issue 2 , February 2018, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was designed to investigate medical students’ perceptionsof small group teaching effectiveness in a hybrid curriculum.MATERIALS AND METHODS: ...  Read More OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was designed to investigate medical students’ perceptionsof small group teaching effectiveness in a hybrid curriculum.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional, descriptive survey was conducted at the Schoolof Medicine, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine where we collected the data from195 undergraduate students. A self‑administered questionnaire consisting of 25 items was used tomeasure students’ perception on the effectiveness of problem‑based learning (PBL) with regard tolearning experience, teamwork, confidence, communication skills, and role of the tutor. Statisticalanalyses included mean and standard deviation for the description of each item; t‑test to comparethe mean scores for gender and class year, and one‑way analysis of variance between groups forage group comparisons.RESULTS: The students overall perceptions of small group teaching effectiveness showed that thePBL sessions were beneficial to their learning process (mean: 3.63 ± 0.46). Students have positiveperceptions toward small group effectiveness, particularly in learning experience (mean: 3.98 ± 0.63)and teamwork (mean: 3.67 ± 0.58). The mean scores, measuring teamwork, for 2nd year students wassignificantly higher than that for 1st year students (3.76 ± 0.55 and 3.55 ± 0.60 respectively, P = 013).A similar significant trend was observed between 2nd year and 1st year students on communicationskills (3.48 ± 0.67 and 3.29 ± 0.55, respectively, P = 0.046).CONCLUSIONS: PBL is an effective small group teaching method for medical students. Facultydevelopment and students’ training programs are required before implementing PBL.

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Awareness of health warnings and factors predicting awareness and perceived effectiveness of pictorial health warnings on tobacco products among adults in rural Puducherry, India

. Anindo Majumdar; . S. Ganesh Kumar; . Ramya Selvaraj

Volume 7, Issue 2 , May and June 2017, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Limited information exists in India about the awareness and perception of thepeople regarding pictorial health warnings (PHWs) and text warnings on tobacco products, moreso ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Limited information exists in India about the awareness and perception of thepeople regarding pictorial health warnings (PHWs) and text warnings on tobacco products, moreso from rural areas. Objectives were to report the awareness of these warnings, factors predictingawareness and perceived effectiveness of PHWs, and understanding of their content in a ruralpopulation.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A community‑based cross‑sectional study was conducted intwo villages (chosen randomly out of total four) in the rural field practice area of a tertiary careteaching hospital in Puducherry. Households were selected by systematic random sampling. Allpersons ≥18 years and residing in the area for at least 6 months were included. Data regardingawareness and perception of participants was collected through a semi‑structured interviewschedule.RESULTS: A total of 428 participants were recruited; 197 (46%) were male, and 231 (54%) werefemale. The mean age of the participants was 38.9 (standard deviation 15.0) years. Awarenessof PHWs and text warnings was 39.5% (169/428) and 21% (90/428), respectively. Only 11.2%participants perceived PHWs as effective. Most (45%) of the participants had a vague understandingof the content of PHWs. On multivariate logistic regression, male gender, current tobacco use, andbetter education emerged as predictors of greater awareness of PHWs. Extended family predictedgreater perceived effectiveness of PHWs, whereas, high socioeconomic class and middle schoolcompletion predicted lower perceived effectiveness of PHWs.CONCLUSION: Awareness and perceived effectiveness of adults in rural Puducherry regardingPHWs were low. There is a need to create awareness through education and using meaningful,larger pictures.

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