Biochemistry handouts covering all lecture topics as study guide to focus during exam preparation in first year medical undergraduates in India

Abstract

Mamata Vishnu Hegde, Sarita Vijay Agrawal, Parduman Singh, Samir Anil Singru

Medical undergraduates experience a lot of stress before the final examination at the end of their first academic year in India. Biochemistry handouts including all lecture topics were developed as study guides to be used along with the textbook for final exam preparation. To help students focus their study of biochemistry so that subject understanding is facilitated, exam anxiety is reduced and academic performance is enhanced. Six sets of handwritten handouts including all lecture topics were distributed to the first year undergraduates (n=100) of 2009-10 in the biochemistry department of Smt. Kashibai Navale Medical College, Pune, under Maharashtra University of Health Sciences. Grouping of lecture topics in different sets was based on correlation between them wherever possible. All lecture topics were discussed in question and answer format. All answers contained only subheadings, important concepts and relevant examples. These handouts were used by the students mainly in the preparatory leave before the final examination. All the participants agreed in their feedback that the handouts helped them to focus on their textbook study before the final examination. They also reported a better understanding and a reduction in anxiety during exam preparation. Academic performance of participating students in the end of year examination was significantly enhanced (p value < 0.05) when compared to that of the students from 2008-09 without the intervention of handouts. The handouts covering all lecture topics as study guide were a valuable aid for a more organized study. Such resource material developed by faculty can help undergraduates in coping with academic stress in first year of medical education. ©