Future of Medical Education Journal

Future of Medical Education Journal

Effectiveness of Fishbowl Method as an Interactive Teaching Learning Tool for Phase II MBBS Students in the Microbiology Department of a Medical College in India: A Prospective Interventional Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Pratibha Sharma 1
Archana Dhok 2
Amit Kumar Singh 3
Amrita Sarkar 4
Vandana Dewangan 1
1 Sri Balaji Institute of Medical Sciences, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India
2 Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, Maharashtra, India
3 Maharshi Vashishtha Autonomous State Medical College, Basti, India
4 Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences, Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh, India
10.22038/fmej.2026.92334.1712
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of fishbowl method as an interactive teaching learning tool for phase II MBBS students in the microbiology department of a medical college in India
Method: This prospective interventional study involved 110 MBBS 2nd professional students at Shri Balaji Institute of Medical Sciences, India. After a didactic lecture on enteric fever, students participated in a fishbowl activity, divided into closed and open sessions. Post-lecture and post-fishbowl assessments were conducted using 16 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and a survey with Likert-scale and open-ended questions to gather feedback.
Results: The results showed a statistically significant improvement in students' scores after the fishbowl method (p < 0.001). The mean test scores post-lecture and post-fishbowl were 6.50 and 9.07, respectively. Students' feedback revealed strong agreement (30-41%) that the fishbowl method was interesting, improved critical thinking, and enhanced communication skills. The method was also found to increase interest, improve retention, and provide a clearer understanding of concepts.
Conclusion: The study demonstrates the effectiveness of the fishbowl method in enhancing students' understanding and retention of microbiology concepts, promoting academic excellence and interactive learning. It highlights the need for student-centered approaches and innovation in teaching practices to optimize learning outcomes and transform education.
Keywords
Fishbowl method
Interactive teaching learning tool
MBBS students
Didactic lecture
Medical education
Subjects
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