Engagement with video content in the blended classroom

Redefining online biology education: a study on interactive branched video utilisation and student learning experiences

This study evaluated the use of interactive, branched videos compared with traditional passive linear delivery for enhancing student engagement and learning in online courses. Undergraduate biology students were provided with either branched decision-based or linear videos on cell biology and protein purification as self-guided or consolidation activities. While the interactive branched videos did not improve learning gains, thematic analysis revealed that students found them more enjoyable and preferable for revision. However, most students felt linear passive videos were more logically structured for core content delivery. In a revised format, with clearer scaffolding, the interactive branched videos were perceived as significantly more engaging and useful when utilised for a problem-solving activity. Students welcomed the autonomy of directing their learning path but desired support to avoid missing critical information. Overall, thoughtfully designed branched videos can increase student motivation, but their utility depends on context. Our findings indicate the importance of balancing interactivity, clear organisation and purpose when incorporating these innovative formats into online learning. Branched videos show promise for increasing engagement but require intentional instructional design tailored to learning objectives.

Integrating a Video Game Recording Into a Qualitative Research Methods Course to Overcome COVID-19 Barriers to Teaching: Qualitative Analysis

BACKGROUND

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, a doctoral-level public health qualitative research methods course was moved to a web-based format. One module originally required students to conduct in-person observations within the community, but the curriculum was adapted using a web-based video game exercise.

OBJECTIVE

This study sought to evaluate students' perceptions of this adaptation and determine whether the new pilot format successfully met the module's original learning objectives.

METHODS

Recorded footage of a video game session was used for students to observe, take field notes, and compare the results. Qualitative methods were used to evaluate student feedback on the curriculum and determine whether the original learning objectives were met. Data were analyzed using a directed content analysis.

RESULTS

The findings demonstrate that all the learning objectives of this adapted qualitative observational research assignment using a web-based video game exercise were successfully met; namely, the students learned how to compare and contrast the observational notes of peers and to evaluate how personal bias and environmental factors can affect qualitative data collection. The assignment was also positively received by the students.

CONCLUSIONS

The results align with the constructivist learning theory and other successful COVID-19 implementations. Our study demonstrates that the learning objectives of a qualitative observational assignment can be addressed given that there are proper forethought and delivery when the assignment is adapted to a web-based context using a video game exercise.

A special issue of Essays in Biochemistry on current educational developments in molecular bioscience

The 4th joint UK Biochemical Society and Federation of European Biochemical Societies (FEBS) education event, 'Evolving Molecular Bioscience Education' took place online on May 27 and 28, 2021. The event, continuing the biennial series, comprised the invited speakers' talks, group discussions and other participants' pre-recorded flash presentations. Although the UK dominated, there were also speakers and participants from other European countries and other continents. This special issue includes a varied collection of articles written by the speakers and other participants.