الملخص الإنجليزي
Traditionally, summative practical examination in anatomy takes the form of 'spotters'
consisting of a stream of prosections, radiological images and dissections with pins indicating specific structures.
Recently, we have started to administer similar examinations online using the quiz facility in Moodle™ (a free,
open-source web application for producing modular internet-based courses) in addition to the traditional format.
This paper reports on an investigation into students' perceptions of each assessment environment. Methods: Over
a 3-year period, practical assessment in anatomy was conducted either in traditional format or online via learning
management software called Moodle™. All students exposed to the two examination formats at the College of
Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Oman, were divided into two categories: junior (Year 3)
and senior (Year 4). An evaluation of their perception of both examination formats was conducted using a selfadministered questionnaire consisting of restricted and free response items. Results: More than half of all students
expressed a clear preference for the online environment and believed it was more exam-friendly. This preference
was higher amongst senior students. Compared to females, male students preferred the online environment. Senior
students were less likely to study on cadavers when the examination was conducted online. Specimen quality, ability
to manage time, and seating arrangements were major advantages identified by students who preferred the online
format. Conclusion: Computer-based practical examinations in anatomy appeared to be generally popular with our
students. The students adopted a different approach to study when the exam was conducted online as compared to
the traditional 'steeplechase' format.
