author = {Balasubramaniam, Sudharsanam.}, title = {{Computer-assisted group study for learning/teaching medical entomology to medical students}}, journal ={International Journal of Health & Allied Sciences}, volume ={1}, number ={1}, pages = {5-7}, doi = {10.4103/2278-344X.96408}, year = {2012}, abstract ={Objectives: The objective of this study was to describe an innovative method used for teaching entomology. Setting : It was performed at Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, JIPMER, Puducherry. Materials and Methods: Fifty-five second year medical students were divided into two batches. Each batch had two sessions on entomology. In each session students were divided into small groups and assigned to prepare on the various insects of medical entomological importance and present on the prepared topic. The topics included vector characteristics, vector habits, diseases transmitted and modes of transmission of diseases, control of vectors. The corresponding photographs of the insects were projected at the end of each presentation. The modes of transmission, diseases transmitted, and control measures were learnt through the oral presentations. After each session students were shown the slides under microscopes to reinforce the features. Pretest and posttest were used to find the gain in knowledge and feedback was taken at the end of each session. Results: Comparison of pretest and posttest scores showed a statistically significant gain in the knowledge. Feedback from students revealed that objectives were clear for 42 of the 55 students. Facilitating factors included interactive session (14), group discussion (31), PowerPoint presentation (24), good moderator (14). Factors which hindered learning were lack of time for preparation (13) and afternoon sessions (2). Students suggested that more of this type of classes should be taken for them in near future (28). Conclusion: This method served as an effective alternative method as judged by students' performance and feedback.}, URL ={https://www.ijhas.in/article.asp?issn=2278-344X;year=2012;volume=1;issue=1;spage=5;epage=7;aulast=Balasubramaniam;t=6}, eprint ={https://www.ijhas.in/article.asp?issn=2278-344X;year=2012;volume=1;issue=1;spage=5;epage=7;aulast=Balasubramaniam;t=6} }