Blended learning – integrating E-learning with traditional learning methods in teaching basic medical science

Background: Blended learning includes an integration of face to face classroom learning with technology enhanced online material. It provides the convenience, speed and cost effectiveness of e-learning with the personal touch of traditional learning. Objective: The objective of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of a combination of e-learning module and traditional teaching (Blended learning) as compared to traditional teaching alone to teach acid base homeostasis to Phase I MBBS students. Method: The entire batch of 200 students who had exposure to traditional lecture teaching on acid base homeostasis was randomly divided two batches and the integrated e-learning module was implemented for 100 students of MBBS Phase I (200 students). The mean scores of both the groups were compared using unpaired t-test. Result: The mean performance scores of the students of blended group was statistically (p < 0.05) significant as compared to that of the students who received only traditional teaching. Conclusion: The concept of understanding the complex contents like acidbase homeostasis and its application on patient care was better among the group of students who had exposure to blended learning than those, only to traditional class room learning.