Computer simulation versus chalk and talk for experimental pharmacology teaching

Abstract

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Computer simulation is an alternative method for teaching experimental pharmacology to medical undergraduates, which can reduce the usage of animals for this purpose. This study compares computer simulation with chalk-and-talk method for teaching experimental pharmacology to medical undergraduate students with respect to understanding and retention of the topic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two groups of students (n = 25 each) were taught a topic with and without the help of computer simulation for 30 min. A questionnaire was provided at the end of the class, and the responses of the two groups were compared. The opinions of the students were also evaluated on the Likert scale. RESULTS: The mean of the marks obtained by the students in the computer simulation group was 18.08 ± 1.66 while in the chalk-and-talk group was 15.44 ± 2.83 (P < 0.001). More students were of the opinion that computer simulation helps in better understanding and long-term retention of the topic and did not feel any further necessity to read books for understanding. More students were comfortable with computer simulation as a method of teaching and were confident in handling animals. More students also suggested that computer simulation is a better method for teaching at the undergraduate level. CONCLUSIONS: Computer simulation may be considered a suitable method for teaching experimental pharmacology to medical undergraduates with an intention to reduce the requirement of animals for teaching purposes and hence reduce trauma and discomfort to animals.