Society and learning approaches have changed over the last 5 years, particularly due to the Covid-19 pandemic with a notable shift towards independent and online learning approaches being observed. We have noticed an increased reluctance of some students to volunteer for roles within group settings and to engage with teamwork, as well as a decline in student confidence when working in teams. We feel laboratory practicals remain key in fostering interpersonal skills, promoting collaboration, improving self-esteem and reconnecting students by encouraging team-work opportunities.

This small study aims to evaluate student perceptions of in person face to-face team-based activity post pandemic in our 2nd year human volunteer exercise physiology projects.

Comprising two teams of 15, students were tasked with designing and implementing their projects, organising tasks, designing protocols and allocating roles to all team members.

The effectiveness of this approach was evaluated by questionnaire (n=26).  88% of students reported that the pandemic affected their experiences with group work. Initial data shows a positive experience with the face-to-face project format. 100% of students enjoyed the team format and the same number confirmed that the format motivated them to actively participate in the project. Furthermore, 23 out of the 26 students reported that the practical environment was inclusive and conducive to collaboration. When asked to rank factors that most positively influenced team-work and collaboration, the highest ranking factor was “face to face interaction” (Mode of 1) All students ranked “The pandemic has no effect on my experience of teamwork and collaboration” as the lowest factor. 

Qualitative feedback, given in free text comments, supported the numerical values reported above, students repeatedly reported: (1) making friends more easily, (2) getting to know people better and (3) being more engaging than online interactions as important outcomes from this project format. 

The initial findings of this study highlights, the pivotal role and benefit of teamwork in our physiology practical sessions and the importance of allowing students face-to-face activities to support their interpersonal skills development and overall learning. It suggests that face-to -face interaction can help to rebuild the social bonds that were weakened during the pandemic. By working in teams in the physiology laboratory, students may regain their confidence in their abilities to contribute effectively to a group setting. Group work allows students to learn from each other, benefit from diverse perspectives and appreciate the value of collaborative effort. It is also vital preparation for professional opportunities as face- to-face group work in the curriculum could better prepare students for future employment.