Evaluation of data analytics workshop using RStudio amongst medical students in Pakistan

Abstract

A quasi-experimental study was conducted at the Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan, to evaluate the outcomes of a series of workshops on 25 medical students’ statistical knowledge and acceptance of RStudio. The knowledge in each of the five sessions was assessed using pre- and post- knowledge-based quizzes. In addition, the Student's Attitude Towards Statistics (SATS-36) and the Technology Acceptance Model were used. Data analysis on RStudio revealed a statistically significant improvement in knowledge in all five sessions (p<0.05). SATS-36 showed statistically significant improvement in Cognitive Competence (p<0.001). RStudio had commendable acceptance with relatively high scores of Attitudes (behavioural intention, median = 6.00 [5.20-7.00]) and Utility (perceived usefulness, median = 5.20 [4.10-6.20]). In conclusion, medical students had improved statistical knowledge and acceptance towards the novel statistical tool. Hence, further studies must evaluate the effectiveness of RStudio when integrated as part of the medical curriculum.

Keywords: RStudio; Technology acceptance; Peer learning; Statistics.