Effectiveness of Small Group Interactive Teaching in Physiology for Enhancing Clinical Application among Medical Students: Small Group Interactive Teaching in Physiology

Abstract

Background: A gap often exists between the learning of Physiology and its application in clinical
practice among undergraduate medical students. Small Group Interactive Sessions (SGIS) have been
proposed as an active learning strategy to enhance understanding, clinical reasoning, and application of
physiological concepts. This study evaluated the effectiveness of SGIS in improving clinical application
skills among final MBBS students.
Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted among 60 final MBBS students
posted in the Department of General Medicine at SVMCH&RC. Participants underwent faculty-
facilitated SGIS focusing on clinically relevant Physiology topics through case-based discussions,
clinical scenario-based questions, peer interaction, and feedback. A 40-item MCQ-based pre-test and
post-test were administered to assess knowledge and clinical application. Student perceptions were
collected using a validated 5-point Likert scale questionnaire, and qualitative feedback was analyzed
using thematic analysis. Quantitative data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test.
Results: The mean pre-test score was 23.01 ± 2.38, which increased significantly to 33.76 ± 2.28
following the intervention, with a mean improvement of 10.75 points. Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test
demonstrated a highly significant difference between pre-test and post-test scores (Z = +6.785, p <
0.001). Qualitative analysis revealed five major themes: reinforcement of foundational concepts,
improved clinical correlation, active engagement, enhanced confidence and preparedness for clinical
postings, and strong student support for continuation of SGIS. Students perceived SGIS as interactive,
effective, and beneficial for applying physiological concepts to clinical scenarios.
Conclusion: SGIS is an effective educational strategy for enhancing clinical application of Physiology
among final MBBS students. It improves knowledge, engagement, confidence, and preparedness for
clinical practice while bridging the gap between basic science learning and clinical application.