A comparative study to assess the effectiveness of classroom teaching versus online educational modules on knowledge and attitude regarding organ donation among nurses working in selected hospitals of Mumbai Navi Mumbai

Abstract

Introduction: The incorporation of technology in education has established online training as an emerging credible teaching method. However, effectiveness of online learning for professional nurses in India remains relatively unexplored, particularly given its nascent context. newline newlineMethodology: The study aimed to ascertain the impact of online and offline teaching on knowledge and attitude (KandA) regarding organ donation (OD) among nursing professionals in India using data triangulation method. 509 nurses from eight departments across six reputable hospitals undertook a pre-test assessment on KandA followed by either classroom sessions or online modules on OD. The face-to-face sessions were conducted in a classroom, while the online lectures were through the WISE App a SAAS application. newline newlineResults: Among 509 nurses, 50.49% had online training and 49.50% in person in-put. Among them 191, 37.52% completed the post-test after 7 to 10 days. Using paired t-test and RM ANOVA, offline participants exhibited a notable improvement in post-test scores for KandA on OD. The post-test scores of those who attended the offline sessions showed significant improvement compared to those who participated in the online sessions. The difference in pre and post-test scores related to the teaching mode was statistically significant (Knowledge score P=0.002, Attitude score P=lt0.0001). newline newlineDiscussion: The study unraveled the import of offline classes in enhancing the learning. Interactions, internalization and integration of learning in offline was value adding. Factors such as opportunities to question, clarify, engage and share were vital elements of the learning paradigm. This is validated in the quantitative analyses This could be attributed to nurse s comfort with traditional teaching methods and having limited exposure to digital tools. newline newlineConclusion: Working nurses favored offline teaching over online methods, contradicting the assumption that online mode is effective or desired. It unlocked a fresh perspective in shaping nursing education. newline