KUMJ | VOL. 13 | NO. 3 | ISSUE 51 | JULY-SEPT. 2015

“Question of the Day”: Impact on learning and retention
Satheesha Nayak B, Mohandas Rao KG, Sudarshan S, Naveen K, Srinivasa Rao S, Ashwini Aithal P

Abstract:
Background Studying regularly has been a known method for better memory and long term retention of a subject. Getting students to study on a regular basis has been tried in many ways and its impact is increased if they understand the importance and value the efficiency of it. Objectives With large number of students, it would be a time consuming process to follow one on one interactions or study sessions. Hence, we introduced a new strategy, the “Question of the Day”, which is interesting, challenging and most of all; it has produced positive influence on the examination performance of the students who performed this task. Main objective of this study was to make students answer questions related to the topics taught every day. Method Regular studying and updating the subject knowledge was provided through Question of the Day (Annexure-1). The students were given the questions on a regular basis during dissection classes and were asked to document the answers for those questions. Result The students who worked on the “Question of the Day” scored significantly higher in the exams than those who did not. The results of the opinion survey clearly indicated that this exercise was liked by most of the students. Conclusion “Question of the day” did have a positive influence on the student’s performance. Most of the students felt that this exercise had a positive impact on their study methods, interaction with peers and teachers, retention and recollection of the knowledge.
Keyword : Anatomy, medical education, questions, self-directed learning, student learning, teaching-learning.