MBBS student perceptions about physiology subject teaching and objective structured practical examination based formative assessment for improving competencies

Abstract

The objectives of the present study were to 1) assess student attitudes to physiology, 2) evaluate student opinions about the influence of an objective structured practical examination (OSPE) on competence, and 3) assess the validity and reliability of an indigenously designed feedback questionnaire. A structured questionnaire containing 16 item statements, 8 items on an Osgood's 5-point semantic differential scale and 8 items on a Likert's 5-point scale, was used. Options were assigned scores of 1–5 according to weightage. For Osgood's semantic differential scale items, a χ2-test was done to analyze student attitudes toward the subject. For Likert scale items, mean score and SD were calculated to analyze student opinions of the OSPE. Item validity was assessed by item analysis, and reliability was assessed by calculating Crohnbach's α. The subject as a whole was interesting to 82% of the students ( n = 135). The theory was interesting to 75% of the students ( n = 132) but complex to 42% ( n = 118). The practical was interesting to 93% of the students ( n = 134); 76% of the students ( n = 104) felt that the practical was simple, whereas 4% felt it was complex. The OSPE was interesting to 79% of the students ( n = 131); 57% of the students ( n = 116) felt it was simple, whereas 24% found it complex. Components of the subject, intricateness, and student interests were strongly associated. Students chose options on a higher weight scale, favoring the OSPE. Items were found to be valid and reliable. In conclusion, the subject of physiology was interesting but not simple to understand. Student interests varied with the components of the subject, and the components of the subject had varied intricateness. Students were in favor of the OSPE for assessment. The questionnaire used for the study was valid and reliable.