Application and reflection of blended learning in theoretical and practice courses of periodontology education

BackgroundBlended learning mode has been widely applied in medical education, especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic. This study is to evaluate the effectiveness of blended learning mode in periodontal education for further promotion. MethodsThe blended learning mode consists of face-to-face classes and SPOCs built on the Xfaike online course platform. The preparation before the courses included the optimization of teaching calendar, establishment of online learning platform, integration of the online and offline content. The feedback was evaluated by a questionnaire involving instruction method, instruction content and learning outcomes. ResultsAll of the participants (n=65) answered the questionnaire. According to the questionnaire, the blended learning mode has been approved by all of the students. More than 95% of students convinced that blended learning mode can improve their self-learning ability. About 84.62% of students could finish the preview and review task of online courses. All of the students believed that they can exchange their questions with teachers more pertinently in offline classes after online learning, and online learning videos can be viewed smoothly and repeatedly at any time. ConclusionsThe blended learning mode has been highly accepted among students, as the learning platform could provide abundant learning materials, improve self-learning ability, and provide a deeper understanding of knowledge. Thus, the blended learning could be considered as a promising educational mode for medical students to meet higher educational requirements.