ABSTRACT
Background: Students learn passively in the lecture format and rely on teachers for knowledge acquisition, making it unsuitable for achieving the higher levels of knowledge. Jigsaw learning encourages collaboration between learners for a deeper understanding of the subject and the facilitator role is relatively limited. Aim and Objectives: The aim of the study was to: 1. Determine the effectiveness of the jigsaw method versus traditional lecture methods for the teaching of Attitude, communication, and ethics (AETCOM) in Phase I MBBS students. 2. To assess the perception of students toward the jigsaw method. Material and Methods: This quasi-experimental study included 104 Phase I MBBS students, who were assigned to the jigsaw group and traditional lecture group. As part of the jigsaw method, 10 parent groups and five expert groups were formed to encourage peer group learning. Validated pre-tests, post-tests, and questionnaires were used in the evaluation. Results: On post-test, both groups scored significantly higher than pre-test, but the scores on pre-test did not differ between them. Post-test scores of the jigsaw group were significantly higher than those of the traditional method group. Jigsaw was rated positively by students for enhancing peer interaction (91%), deeper learning of the subject (90%), and communication skills (89%). Conclusion: The jigsaw method is more effective than the traditional method for the teaching of the AETCOM module to medical undergraduates. It can be used as a helpful tool for teaching communication skills and teamwork by utilizing cooperative learning strategies.