Comparison of Group Discussion and Lecture Method in Student's Learning and Satisfaction of Life Instructions Unit

Selection of a suitable educational method for learning is of special importance. This study was performed with the goal of comparing group discussion method with lecture method in learning and satisfaction of life instructions course in the students of Arak University of Medical Sciences. In this quasi-experimental study, based on random selection, training content was presented by group discussion in 3 classes, and by lecture method in 3 classes. The data gathering tool was student opinion questionnaire consisting of the course content, teaching method, communication, and the end-of-semester scores. The data were analyzed using χ2 and independent t tests. The α significance level was considered 0.05. The mean and standard deviation of studied samples was 20±2.7. The mean of students’ scores in lecture group was 17.2±2, and in group discussion was 18±1.5, that were statistically significantly different (p≤0.0001). No significant difference was shown between two groups in the mean scores of students’ whole opinion on life instructions course content (p=0.4), but, it was significant for teaching method (p≤0.0001). There was a significant difference between the two groups in the means scores of students’ whole opinions on communication in life instructions class (p≤0.0001). Group discussion can result in more learning and increase students’ satisfaction of life instructions course. Hence, applying group discussion is recommended for teaching this course to all medical students.