Effectiveness of Fishbowl method as Interactive Teaching learning tool for phase II MBBS students in microbiology department of a medical college in India: A Prospective Interventional Study

Sharma, Pratibha; Singh, Amit Kumar; Dhok, Archana; Sarkar, Amrita; Dewangan, Vandana

doi:10.22038/fmej.2026.92334.1712

Effectiveness of Fishbowl method as Interactive Teaching learning tool for phase II MBBS students in microbiology department of a medical college in India: A Prospective Interventional Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Pratibha Sharma ¹

Amit Kumar Singh ²

Archana Dhok ³

Amrita Sarkar ⁴

Vandana Dewangan ¹

¹ Sri Balaji Institute of Medical Sciences, Raipur, Chattisgarh

² Maharshi Vashishtha Autonomous State Medical College, Basti

³ Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, Maharashtra, India

⁴ Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences, Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh

10.22038/fmej.2026.92334.1712

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of fishbowl method as Interactive Teaching learning tool for phase II MBBS students in microbiology department of a medical college in India
Methods: This prospective interventional study involved 110 MBBS 2nd professional students at Shri Balaji Institute of Medical Sciences. 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 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