IJAR - Indian Journal of Applied Research

Jayanthi M

Volume : V, Issue : XI, November - 2015

Assignments for Assistance and MCQs for Assessment Help Problem Learners Improve Academic Performance in Pharmacology a pilot study

Jayanthi M

Abstract :

A pilot study was undertaken to find out if assignments in ‘must learn’ areas in pharmacology with MCQ assessments and individualised attention help medical students to score better marks. Problem learners were identified among the second year MBBS students of a Government Medical College in South India and assignments were given to them in selected topics in pharmacology. Individualised attention was provided to the students to rectify their mistakes Their performance in the formative examinations and MCQ tests were evaluated both before and after assignment using student t test.The mean mark in the post–assignment sessional examination was significantly higher than that in pre–assignment sessional examinations (p= 0.01). Assignments in ‘must learn’ areas with individualised attention helped the problem learners develop interest in pharmacology and improve learning. Further, MCQ assessments in addition to being an assessment tool motivated the students to score better marks in the formative assessment examinations