Evaluating the learning experience of web-conferenced case-based learning

Abstract

Peter Nicklen, Jennifer L. Keating, Stephen Maloney

Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate web-conferenced case-based learning (WCBL) through the student experience across a semester of learning. Also, learning was evaluated via unit examination and compared to the previous year’s cohort, which utilized face-to-face case-based learning (F2F-CBL). Methods: This study took place over the first semester of the third year of a Bachelor of Physiotherapy program at Monash University, Australia in 2014. Having experienced 2 years of weekly F2F-CBL activities since commencing the program, students were transitioning to WCBL for the duration of this study. Primary outcomes included measures of satisfaction, attendance, communication, issues with information technology, and perceived depth of learning, with data collected via a post-unit survey. The secondary outcome was student learning, evaluated with the unit examination results. Results: 76/78 students completed the post-unit survey (non-participation rate 2.6%). Although 95% of participants reported that WCBL was a valuable addition to the teaching activities of the unit, students reported a range of new challenges and rewards from the transition to small-group WCBL activities. Strong themes emerged encompassing adaptation of communication, increased responsibility for learning, technical difficulties, and learning in a remote environment. Overall, 92% of participants agreed that they were satisfied with WCBL. The unit exam result was comparable for the 2013 (F2F-CBL) and the 2014 (WCBL) cohorts [Mean (standard deviation) 2013 (%) 75.97 (9.56) n = 73; 2014 (%) 76.74 (6.57) n = 78, effect size [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 0.09 (−0.23–0.41)]. Conclusions: Web conferencing may be a suitable medium for students to participate in collaborative CBL activities. Furthermore, study should evaluate the financial implications of implementing WCBL across an entire semester with regard to student and facility costs.