Introduction of near peer assisted learning approach in teaching proper hand scrub technique among undergraduate students
Introduction: In near peer assisted learning (NPAL)tutor is of the same level of education as with one to two years senior but within the same broad grade. Literature suggests that it fosters qualities like leadership, self-confidence and mentoring in tutors with simultaneous provision of a cordial learning environment to tutees. With this study we introduced NPAL in our newly established institute and assessed its feasibility, student’s perception, future applicability.Method: After having ethical clearance from institution, the students and faculty of Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology were sensitized. The interns posted in labor room were designated as tutors and maternity students were included as tutees. The surgical hand scrub was the topic of teaching. The faculty taught interns and assessed, then interns taught maternity students and they were assessed by faculty members. The interns were again assessed by faculty. Afterwards both these interns and maternity students supposed to work together in labor room, the feedback was taken from all with a structured questionnaire using Likert scale.Result: The results were encouraging from all the corners, the tutors, tutees and faculty agreed that NPAL is a better method of teaching strongly enhancing the learning of tutors and their communication skills and develops positive attitude towards teaching as a part of their profession. The tutees found a cordial learning environment with a cognitive congruence with their tutors and felt very comfortable while working with them. Faculty also showed a positive attitude towards NPAL.Conclusion: NPAL is a good adjunct to standard teaching but could not substitute standard teaching.