Utilization focused evaluation at Bahria University Medical and Dental College

Objective: To evaluate integrated learning program of neurosciences for continuation of integrated learning in the forthcoming teaching and learning modules of undergraduate medical curriculum at Bahria University Medical a Dental College [BUMDC]

Methods: A mixed method design was conducted from August 2016 to February 2017 after ethical approval from BUMDC. The quantitative aspect was evaluated retrospectively by desk records of marks obtained in integrated module and nonintegrated module. Focused group discussion were conducted with primary intended users [chair of integration committee, faculty and students of first and second year MBBS] to share their expectations and concerns and get responses on key evaluation questions for implementation and outcome evaluation of integrated learning program

Results: The desk record revealed a positive perception of students and faculty at the time of implementation with improvement in results after integration in subjects of basic sciences. The discussions highlighted reasons which resulted in failure of its continuation and affirmed readiness for re-induction and continuation of integration with clinical sciences

Conclusion: Evaluators considered approval and re-application of integrated curriculum at BUMDC after utilization focused evaluation

Role of student semiars in teaching physiology

Objective: To assess usefulness of student's seminars in teaching of physiology

Methods: A cross sectional study conducted from January 2010 to December 2011. The students seminars were scheduled once in two months for a duration of 2 hours with at least three presentations. Presentation of 30 minutes carried by a group of four students was, followed by question and answer session. The response of students on usefulness of seminars was acquired through a questionnaire with three components; I] usefulness of seminars in understanding of Physiology acquired on 5 point Likert Scale strongly disagree [0] to strongly agree [5]; II] useful for leaning capabilities on three point scale, not at all, to some extent and to a great extent, and III] comprised the free comment section. Frequency of responses was analyzed by SPSS version 11

Results: A total of 13 seminars were conducted by Department of Physiology. Response showed that 62 [71%] and 71[82%] were not able to understand content and difficult concepts of Physiology. Only 2[2%] rated its usefulness to understand pathological aspects, it did not help altogether in theory examination and only 5 [6%] rated its efficacy for practical examination. Working in group enabled them 42[48%] to interact with each other. Seminars helped in self directed learning with development of presentation and communication skills in 21[24%], 28 [32 %] and 32[37%] respectively. The students recommended this to be conducted in small groups

Conclusion: Students were not satisfied with the utility of seminars in teaching of Physiology and improvement in their learning capabilities