Flexibility of Virtual Team-based Learning in Teaching Medical Genetics

Abstract

Team-based Learning (TBL) is a global education strategy designed to inculcate self-directed and active learning. The fallout is a new breed of students who are exposed to restricted and compromised teaching and learning methods via online platforms amidst this COVID -19 pandemic. Therefore, this innovation aims to explore the application of active learning among undergraduate medical students through virtual TBL. In this pilot study, the concept of medical genetics is introduced virtually through utilizing online platforms, Microsoft TeamsTM and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Learning Management System (UKMFolioTM), while maintaining the principles of TBL. Emphasis is placed on applied learning to apply the fundamental knowledge learnt during the preparation phase through team discussions and subsequent pitching presentations. Our study indicates no significant difference (p=0.404) in the mean score of students who participated in conventional face-to-face TBL sessions and virtual TBL. This suggests that active and self-directed learning can be integrated through virtual means with reproducible excellent results as with conventional face-to-face TBL. Nonetheless, issues related to Internet stability and insufficient content experts must be addressed if we are to tackle successful virtual teaching and learning.