Effect of Interactive Lectures and Formative Assessment on Learning of Epidemiology by Medical Undergraduates – A Mixed-Methods Evaluation

BACKGROUND: Previously, we had a course in epidemiology for medical undergraduates that was based on traditional lecture methods with no formal formative assessment (FA). We found poor uptake of our course in terms of learning and attendance by students. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to assess the effect of improved course (interactive lectures and formal FA) in epidemiology on student learning and attendance. MATERIALS AND METHODS: It was a triangulation type of mixed-methods program evaluation, where both quantitative (quasi-experimental design) and qualitative (open-ended responses) analysis was done. This study was carried out in the department of community medicine in a tertiary care teaching hospital, Puducherry. We improved the quality of the course material, interaction in lectures and included formal structured FA in the last course. Kirkpatrick's framework was used for the course evaluation. We compared the performance of three batches to check the effect of our revisions on students' learning and their attendance. RESULTS: Student's learning outcome was measured using end-of-course assessment scores (Level-2). The percentage of students successfully completing the course improved from 39% to 81% and attendance status of ≥90% improved from 50% to 57%. Learner's immediate reactions (Level-1) were captured using open-ended questions, and content analysis was done. Students appreciated the course material, FAs, and in-class activity. CONCLUSIONS: Little improvement in a traditional epidemiology course for undergraduates in the form of interactive lectures and formative feedback and providing the student with course material led to significant gains in students' knowledge and attendance.