Evaluating a Self-selective e-course in a Dental School (cycle III)

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the third cycle in the development of a self-selective course taught using a blended and online learning method, to present the impact of the changes applied to the course after the completion of the second cycle and to investigate the differences between blended and e-learning environments. Methods: The sample of this study consisted of students from the 1st, 3rd, 4th BDS years, Diploma in Dental Hygiene and Therapy and postgraduate dental students who participated in a Health Informatics course as part of their professional training. The Action Research method used involved three evaluation processes. Questionnaires were used to collect contextual data from the students, a student led Nominal Group technique was used to collect group-based data, and a non-participant observer technique was used to record students' participation in online discussion. Results: According to 50% of the respondents the course has added to their skills. The WebCT environment was a useful resource according to 53%. Seventy five percent of the respondents supported the option to complete the sessions online. A thematic analysis of the nominal group reports highlighted problems and made valuable suggestions regarding the improvement of the course. The non-participant observer technique identified differences in regards to online discussion participation between the groups Conclusion: The learners predominately preferred to complete the sessions online when they did not require synchronous support. The majority of the learners valued the ability to access the instructional material online over online collaboration. Comparing to the previous cycle the change in the delivery method influenced negatively the materials' understanding. The educational value of the VLE (WebCT) used in this cycle was lower than the one used at the previous cycle (Moodle). Differences between different groups of learners were recorded but no significant differences between males and females.