3-Dimensional model making as an innovative tool for enhanced learning through student engagement among early professional medical graduates

Background: Various innovative teaching-learning methods have been introduced in the medical curriculum for a better understanding of the difficult topics. We introduced the 3-dimensional (3D) model-making as an innovative tool for enhanced learning through student engagement among early professional medical graduates. Methods: The study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry of a Private Medical College. The phase I medical undergraduate students were divided into 20 groups with 10 students in each group. The topics taught by didactic lectures were allotted to each group by lottery method and were informed that the best model will be suitably rewarded after evaluation. Feedback was collected from the students on a five-point Likert scale after the submission and evaluation of the models. Results: About 92% of the students expressed that 3D model-making was an innovative method of learning in the medical profession, and 96.3% agreed that the topics allotted were relevant to the syllabus and helped in better understanding of the subject when compared to didactic lectures. The students also agreed that the 3D model-making activity enhanced their creativity and application of knowledge to learn biochemistry, developed a positive attitude, helped to coordinate with their peers, and improved communication skills. They suggested that this activity should be continued with the inclusion of more topics. Discussion: The 3D model-making activity helped the students to enjoy learning, think differently, understand better, expand their knowledge and recall information more comprehensively.