Teaching Slow Learners and Fast Learners Sepreatly In Small Group Teaching In Dental School-Students Perception, Concern and Impact

Background: Small group teaching is appreciated but separating students in to slow and fast learners based on their academic performances has not been studied in detail. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the students perceptions and concerns as well as the impact of separate classes for slow learners and fast learners and also to find whether there is any significant differences between slow learners and fast learners’ opinion regarding the same. Materials and Methods: In this study, a questionnaire consisting of 10 questions assessingstudents perception, impact and concern on the separate classes for slow learners and fast learners was prepared and distributed to 150 students of a dental school where small group teaching as well separate classes for slow learners and fast learners are conducted. The data was collected and analysed statistically. Result: On analysing the data, it was found that a majority of the students (67%) rated the concept of small group teaching as an excellent method. However, separate classes for slow learners and fast learners were not well appreciated by the students. More fast learners felt that it affected the unity of the students than the slow learners. A majority of fast learners felt that grouping them based on their performance has improved their classroom learning and improved their confidence in participating in active learning methods where as a majority of the slow learners disagreed. Conclusion: It can be concluded that small group teaching is preferred by the dental students but separation based on academic performances is not favoured.