Abstract

Aim. In this technologically advancing world, online teaching has become omnipresent in all fields. However, teaching online is still a challenge in allied health professional courses where hands-on skills are the core component of the curriculum. Hence, the aim of this paper was to assess the effectiveness of a case based combined online video and written assignment in improving the practical performance and satisfaction of the cardiorespiratory physiotherapy course students. Material and Methods. At INTI International University (INTIIU), we provided a case scenario to the cardiorespiratory physiotherapy course students as an assignment. First, the students need to submit their written answers in the Blackboard (BB) Learning Management System. They also need to record a video of the patient assessment procedure for the given case scenario and upload it in the BB. The student’s practical performance before the online assignment in the coursework Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) and after the assignment in the Final OSCE was assessed to find the difference. Results. The paired t-test showed a significant difference between coursework (M = 66.47, SD = 7.04) and final OSCE (M = 77.49, SD=10.11) performance; t (13) = −3.48, p = 0.004, which indicates that the students’ performance in the final OSCE was significantly better than coursework OSCE. The students’ perception about the course and their engagement in the BB was better. Conclusions. The case-based video and written assignment is a successful strategy to improve the practical performance of the students in a physiotherapy course where practical skills are imperative.

Key words:

blended learning, video assignment, online assignment, practical performance, physiotherapy