Abstract

Objective: To identify the effectiveness of small group discussion (SGD) in dental students and to assess its acceptance using their perception of the virtual environment.
Methodology: The study was conducted using a qualitative, phenomenological in-depth focus group methodology using open ended, semi structured questions. Study sample consisted of 8-10 dental students from second, third and final year class. We used audiotapes of FGD, which were transcribed and data from transcriptions was thematically analyzed.
Results: Participants had a clear concept of SGD. Most participants preferred in campus SGD’s over online SGD’s as they were novice to this new system. Many social and environmental factors were deemed to be responsible for its less efficiency. They found online SGD’s just to be a temporary alternate for in campus SGD’s.
Conclusion: Most participants agreed that of online SGD was less effective learning methodology as compared to in-campus. However, virtual SGD could be accepted with the elimination of barriers.

Key words: Small group discussion, virtual, dental students.