Technology-Mediated Learning in Higher Education Physiology Classes: The Use of MeGli App to Teach Glycemic Control

Abstract

Glycemic control is a fundamental physiological concept in diabetes and obesity. Proper training of healthcare professionals in this content is essential for disease prevention and management. Active learning methods, including technology-mediated learning (TML), are important for effective education and student engagement. Given the complexity of physiology, educational technology can facilitate the visualization of its dynamic processes. Thus, we've developed the MeGli smartphone application as an educational tool to teach glycemic control and related conditions, aimed at undergraduate students in health and biological courses. Our hypothesis is that the use of MeGli in Physiology classes promotes student learning and satisfaction. MeGli ( https://t.ly/crEwT ) is a didactic simulator for glycemic metabolism, allowing users to observe postprandial and fasting events, interact with objects, and explore cellular processes. The aim of this study was to conduct and evaluate a TML class using the app and its impact on students' outcomes in Biological Sciences Physiology classes at University of Campinas (n = 23). We analyzed pretest-posttest knowledge questionnaires using the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank test (p ≤ 0.05) due to non-normal data (Shapiro-Wilk normality test). Additionally, we applied a Likert scale opinion survey. Prior to the intervention, students provided informed consent, ensuring anonymous participation. The use of MeGli in a non-expository class, where students consulted the app in an active-learning process for answering and discussing questions, led to a significant improvement in their performance on the topic of glucose metabolism and diabetes (pretest mean 5,739± 0,3784 versus 8,652± 0,2142 on posttest; p < 0.0001). In terms of student feedback, opinion questionnaire results were overwhelmingly positive. All students agreed that the app was useful for learning and helped in their understanding of diabetes mechanisms. 87% understood the importance of healthy eating and physical exercise through the app. 91.3% reported a higher acquisition of knowledge due to the app's use and found the app-integrated class more stimulating and engaging. These findings strongly support the effectiveness of the MeGli application in facilitating physiology education, leading to a more motivating educational experience. Consequently, this study is significant in introducing an innovative tool that mediates active learning with technology, enhancing physiology teaching strategies and improving the education of future healthcare professionals. CNPq (441028/2020-9), FAPESP (2018/26080-4), CEPID (2013/07607-8). This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.