Team based learning: an effective teaching-learning method in undergraduate teaching in community medicine

Background: “Team-based learning (TBL)” is a special approach by using small groups that is student centered, teacher guided Teaching and Learning method. Medical Council of India (MCI) emphasizes small group teaching. With increasing student numbers and decreasing/no change in faculty strength, the need for an effective T-L method for incorporating small group teaching in a large group is essential. So, this study attempts to evaluate the effectiveness and student reaction for TBL. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among III-year MBBS students attending block posting in the Department of Community Medicine, KIMS and RC. Pre-test and post-test after Team based learning implementation by designated faculties was conducted, and scores were analysed. The feedback of TBL was collected by using a Likert scale from students and also from faculties. Results: The mean scores of pre- and post-test were analyzed by Paired T test which was statistically significant (p value <0.05). The student reaction evaluated by 7 items Likert scale questionnaire showed that most of the students either agreed or strongly agreed that TBL enhanced their learning experience and confidence. The faculty feedback about TBL was also positive. Conclusions: TBL can be effectively implemented in medical colleges for the better results and student reaction.

Prevalence of internet addiction in south Indian chat rooms

Background: There are various reasons for internet addiction. In the recent covid and post covid era people have taken up chatting as a pastime. Many spend time chatting with strangers for various reasons. This study was conducted to see the prevalence of internet addiction in south Indian chat rooms and the reasons leading to it Methods: After doing a pilot study, many chat room users were administered an online questionnaire. Of the 1763 people approached only 700 of them agreed to participate in this study Results: Of the seven hundred participants, two hundred and sixteen suffered from internet addiction. Of those with Internet addiction, 85% of the chat room users agreed that they drink alcohol when they chat,63.9% cited individual factors as a reason,62% of the chat room users said they visit chat rooms to game with their friends,31% stated cyber relation addiction as a cause,7.4% said lack of a steady job made them get online and chat and 2.3% of the chat users said they frequented chat sites for want of cyber sex Conclusions: People should understand that it’s a virtual world and not real. They should start stepping out and decrease spending time online. Chat rooms should be on a strict vigilance and steps should be taken to screen the chat room users.