Video-aided and traditional learning method: A comparison regarding students' knowledge retention

Abstract

Objectives: This study was conducted to determine effects of surgical operation videos on self-directed learning ability and develop self-learning of public health students. Methods/Statistical Analysis: This study was conducted using subjects who enrolled in a basic medicine course as sophomore students at G College from April to June, 2016. The research was designed to use nonequivalent control group in pre-and post-test. Criteria for data collection were self-directed learning ability, learning motivation, professional self-concept, and satisfactory level. Collected data was analyzed using SPSS Program 18.0. Statistical significance was evaluated with frequency, percentage, χ2-test and t-test. Findings: The basic curriculum has been regarded so difficult to public health students that they just put them aside for memorization later. Self-directed learning was significantly higher in a test group than control group (t=5.174, p > .001). But professional selfconcept had no significant difference between two groups (t=-.603. p= .548). Learning motive had no significant difference between two groups (t=1.551. p=.125). Satisfaction level showed a higher average score of 4.41. In particular, for those prejudiced students against the basic curriculum, considered to be strict and difficult to follow, videos could help to draw attention and concentration on their class. Meanwhile, in our study, several approaches were attempted to encourage learners to develop self-learning with opening videos after face-to-face education but no significance was made. Because professional self-concept means realization of self-tasks as professionals, self-esteem would be higher when students are confident. Our study suggests that face-to-face class using videos improved self-directed learning and helped students to study their subjects. But disadvantages of our program were inaccuracy of study materials and not quite well fitted levels. Improvements/Applications: Clinical practice-related videos could intrigue students' interests and help studying basic major subjects, such as anatomy and physiology. But, knowledge and practical experiences in anatomy and pathology are required for students to be properly taught with video-assisted education.