THE EFFECT OF VIRTUAL VERSUS TRADITIONAL LEARNING IN ACHIEVING COMPETENCY-BASED SKILLS

Background: By rapid developing of the network technology, the internet-based learning
methods are substituting the traditional classrooms making them expand to the virtual
network learning environment. The purpose of this study was to determine the
effectiveness of virtual systems on competency-based skills of first-year nursing
students. Materials and methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 86 freshman nursing
students were recruited. Nursing Fundamentals and Skills (including theoretical and
practical credits) was decided as the teaching course. The theory and practical contents
were taught in one group by conventional method (face to face teaching, demonstration
on moulage) and for another by virtual simulation and interactive multimedia. The two
groups were the same for the content being taught, the instructor and the final
evaluation. Paired t-test and independent sample t-test was used for statistical analysis.
Results: In theoretical exam, the mean score in virtual teaching group was higher than
traditional group (P<0.001); however, there was no significant difference between the
two groups in the result of objective structured clinical examination.
Conclusions: Using virtual systems is beneficial in enhancing student learning. Both
traditional and virtual methods can be used in teaching skills in nursing students;
however, it seems that combination of the two can facilitate knowledge transfer.