Effect of didactic learning on knowledge and perception regarding biostatistics amongst postgraduate students: A questionnaire-based study.

Ruchi  Banthia; Ruchika Astolia; Chitransha  Solanki; Kshama; Asif  Murtaza; Shallu Bansal

doi:10.21276/ujds.2026.12.2.5

Dr. Ruchi Banthia Professor and Head Department of Periodontics Modern Dental College and Research Centre, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India 453112
Ruchika Astolia MDS
Dr. Solanki Post graduate student Department of Periodontics Modern Dental College and Research Centre, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India 453112
Dr. Shakyawar Post grdauate student Department of Periodontics Modern Dental College and Research Centre, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India 453112
Dr. Murtaza Post graduate student Department of Periodontics Modern Dental College and Research Centre, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India 453112
Dr. Shallu Bansal Professor and Head Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Geetanjali Dental and Research Institute, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India 313001

DOI: https://doi.org/10.21276/ujds.2026.12.2.5

Keywords: Biostatistics, Didactic learning, Postgraduate dental education, Knowledge assessment, Perception and attitude, Questionnaire-based study

Abstract

Introduction: Biostatistical tools form the backbone of evidence-based research and are essential for scientific decision-making. However, the wide scope and complexity of biostatistics often make its application challenging for postgraduate students. Structured teaching and repeated reinforcement may help improve understanding and perception of the subject.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of didactic learning on knowledge and perception regarding biostatistics among postgraduate dental students.

Methodology: A questionnaire-based pre–post study was conducted among postgraduate dental students from a single institution. Participants attended a series of structured lectures on biostatistics delivered by a faculty member. Responses were recorded before and after the teaching sessions, and changes in knowledge and perception were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using McNemar’s test.

Results: Post-intervention analysis showed a significant improvement in knowledge and perception regarding biostatistics for questions related to application, interpretation, and understanding of statistical concepts (questions 2–7; p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Didactic teaching significantly improved knowledge and perception of biostatistics among postgraduate dental students. Reinforced and structured learning may help reduce anxiety and improve the effective application of biostatistics in research.

Keywords: Biostatistics, Didactic learning, Postgraduate dental education, Knowledge assessment, Perception and attitude, Questionnaire-based study

References

References:
1. Penmetsa GS, Dubba K, Mohammad Z. Knowledge, attitude and perception regarding biostatistics among postgraduate students in dental institution of Andhra Pradesh. J Indian Assoc Public Heath Dent 2017;15(1):68-72.
2. Chima SC, Nkwanyana NM, Esterhuizen TM. Impact of a short biostatistics course on knowledge and performance of postgraduate scholars: Implications for training of African doctors and biomedical researchers. Niger J Clin Pract 2015;18:562-70.
3. Sujatha BK, Reddy MN, Vijayan S. Assessment of knowledge, attitude and perception about biostatistics among faculty and postgraduate students in a dental institution, Bengaluru city – A cross sectional survey. J Dent Res Rev 2018;5(2):54-8.
4. Sharma H. Statistical significance or clinical significance? A researcher's dilemma for appropriate interpretation of research results. Saudi J Anaesth 2021;15(4):431- 34.
5. Hood M, Neumann DL. Evaluation of a workshop to reduce negative perceptions of statistics in undergraduate psychology students. Psychol Learn Teach 2013;12:115-25.
6. Kadri Ghita A, Ghaffar U, Saad M, Mian SH, Ahmed A, Khan J, Farooq A, Kumar N, Vohra F. Knowledge, attitude, and practices towards evidence-based dentistry among dental practitioners: A cross-sectional study. Ann Med Surg 2022;82:104591.
7. Swetha JL, Arpita R, Srikanth C, Nutalapati R. Cognition, comprehension and application of biostatistics in research by Indian postgraduate students in periodontics. J Indian Soc Periodontol 2014;18:65-8.