Effect of Online Formative Assessment Feedback on Learning Outcomes among Medical Under Graduates

Background : Formative assessment provides learners with information that allows them to improve their learning and performance. Conducting Online feedback assessments can work as a time‐effective alternative, for a large number of students and also help in providing timely feedback. Objectives : To analyze the impact of Online formative assessment feedback on the academic performance among Undergraduate students. Methods : This prospective and interventional study was undertaken on MBBS phase I students, age group (>18 years) of Symbiosis Medical College for women using an Online LMS platform. Students were randomly divided into 2 groups so that the mean marks of both the groups are matched. A formative assessment was conducted with the intent to cover important topics for both the groups subsequently. A set of pre‐validated quizzes were administered to the students from both groups; this was followed by an Online feedback session. The students were provided with feedback regarding their performance, based on the checklist prepared. A summative assessment was conducted at the end of the entire system and scores were analyzed in accordance with the marks obtained during online formative assessments. Results : The Online formative assessment feedback method was well accepted by the students as well as faculty due to its feasibility. There was a significant improvement in the academic performance of the students Post formative assessment feedback sessions. Feedback clearly showed that more than 80% of the students found formative assessment as a comprehensive assessment tool, which helps them in identifying gaps in knowledge, also to test their knowledge more comprehensively and motivates them to work harder. Conclusion : Online formative assessments have potential advantages for the students as well as for the teacher as they offer flexibility in terms of time and place. Formative assessment feedback will help the student to understand the expectations of the teacher along with identification of learning gaps.