Online vs. Paper-Based Examination: A Quasi-Experimental Study Comparing Two Examinations Formats in the Integrated Cardiovascular Module at FRPMC.

Shah  Jabeen; Muhammad Faisal Rahim; Sana Kashif; Dua Niaz; Dr Muhammad  Adil; Prof.Dr Erum Imran

doi:10.36283/ziun-pjmd15-2/028

Authors

Shah Jabeen 1. Associate Professor, Dept of Physiology, Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College Institution-Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College, Karachi, Affiliated with Air University
Muhammad Faisal Rahim Fazaia Ruth Pfua Medical College, Air University
Sana Kashif
Dua Niaz FRPMC
Dr Muhammad Adil FRPMC
Prof.Dr Erum Imran FRPMC

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36283/ziun-pjmd15-2/028

Abstract

Background: Medical education has rapidly shifted from traditional paper-based exams to online assessments, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. This changes the trend from paper-based examination towards online examination. This study investigates the effectiveness and preferences of online versus paper-based exams among faculty and students at Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College (FRPMC), Karachi.

Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted from December 2025 to January 2026 at Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College, Karachi, following IRB approval. A total of 225 MBBS students who completed the cardiovascular module participated in a structured perception questionnaire. Performance was assessed in a subsample of 100 students (50 paper-based, 50 online). Both examination formats were equivalent in content, duration, and MCQs. Additionally, 13 faculty members provided qualitative feedback through open-ended questions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS version 26, with questionnaire reliability assessed using Cronbach’s alpha.

Conclusion: Students preferred paper-based exams and felt more confident and less stressed with them, while faculty appreciated the efficiency and fairness of online assessments. These findings imply the need for a balanced strategy that respects students’ comfort while simultaneously supporting the practicality and accuracy valued by faculty.

Author Biographies

Shah Jabeen, 1. Associate Professor, Dept of Physiology, Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College Institution-Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College, Karachi, Affiliated with Air University
1. Associate Professor, Dept of Physiology, Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College
  Institution-Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College, Karachi, Affiliated with Air University
Muhammad Faisal Rahim, Fazaia Ruth Pfua Medical College, Air University

Assistant Professor at Medical Education Dept, Fazaia Ruth Pfua Medical College, Air University
Sana Kashif
1. Assistant Professor, Dept of Physiology, Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College Institution-Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College, Karachi, Affiliated with Air University
Dua Niaz, FRPMC

Medical Student at at FRPMC, Air University
Dr Muhammad Adil, FRPMC
1. Medical student at Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College Institution-Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College, Karachi, Affiliated with Air University
Prof.Dr Erum Imran, FRPMC

Professor-Dr and Head of Dept. Physiology-FRPMC-Air University

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