Case based learning: an effective tool for learning biochemistry to dental students- a cross sectional study

Objectives: To assess the influence of case based learning (CBL) as a teaching-learning tool over the traditional method, with respect to increase understanding, development of interest and improvement of performance in the subject Biochemistry in first year Dental students. Methodology: Selected volunteers from first year were divided into ‘Control Group’ (N=22) and ‘CBL group’ (N=26), which were subjected to three hours of traditional didactic lecture and CBL methods respectively. An assessment of both groups was performed immediately after the lectures and feedback on CBL method was acquired by distributing questions to CBL group using 2 point likert scale. Result: Average marks obtained and percentage of passing (>50%) were more in CBL group than the control. In feedback analysis, 96.15% found CBL more interesting and also helped them in understanding the subject better. 84.6% felt it will help score well and 92.3% suggested implementing it in regular first year curriculum. Conclusion: CBL method showed positive influence on interest and understanding of first year dental students in the subject of biochemistry. Further large scale studies will be helpful to implement CBL in regular first year learning curriculum.