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Perceptions of First Year MBBS Learners on the Use of WhatsApp Groups as an Adjunctive Tool to Facilitate Learning in Anatomy- A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: The abundant usage of mobile devices, its applications and access to information has changed the learners’ way of study, communication and work. Structured and strategically planned usage of this application would support traditional teaching and learning. Based on this widely used WhatsApp social network has been chosen for complementing learning of Anatomy amongst the learners of first year MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery). Aim: To assess the first year MBBS students learners’ perceptions on WhatsApp group discussions conducted during their study period in Anatomy. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Government Medical College, Nizamabad, Telangana, India, in which all the first year MBBS learners (100) of Anatomy from September 2016 to May 2017 and which were on WhatsApp group were included. Discussions using mobiles with facilitator and later perceptions of the learners with a questionnaire were analysed on the implementation and utility of the application. Results: A total of 98 learners answered the questionnaire on perceptions. A 91% of learners admitted that the application was useful to them by >50%. It was observed that 87% of learners were able to communicate with peer group and with their co-learners. A total of 95% felt this could be done with every subject and continued for juniors too with an added advantage of learning academics. A total of 84%, 94% and 95% of learners felt it helped them to prepare for theory, practical and viva-voce exams, respectively. Conclusion: The study concludes that the WhatsApp group discussions can be continued to inculcate learning environment amongst the learners in Anatomy and it should be combined with traditional teaching to enhance learning.