A Comparative Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Book-Based Search Methods versus Mobile-Based Search Methods among the Nursing Students in a Selected Nursing College, Mumbai

Background: In healthcare, nursing students require accurate, up-to-date information for both academic learning and clinical decision-making. Traditionally, textbooks and journals have served as reliable, peer-reviewed sources of knowledge. However, with the advent of smart phones and mobile technology, information retrieval has become faster and more convenient through search engines, mobile applications, and digital libraries. Mobile searches are particularly valuable in clinical settings, offering quick access to current research and treatment guidelines, thereby enhancing clinical decision-making. The shift from traditional book-based methods to mobile-based search tools has significantly transformed nursing education. While textbooks provide dependable and well-established information, mobile devices offer greater speed, accessibility, and real-time updates, which are especially beneficial in dynamic clinical and academic environments. Moreover, mobile search methods have proven superior in terms of knowledge retention, aligning with the increasing reliance on technology in healthcare education. This study was conducted to compare the effectiveness of book-based versus mobile-based search methods among nursing students. Methods: A non-experimental, comparative study design was adopted involving 71 B.Sc. Nursing students selected using non-probability convenience sampling. Students were divided into two groups?one using traditional textbooks and the other using mobile-based search methods to retrieve academic content. Pre-test and post-test knowledge scores were measured using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, specifically the unpaired t-test to determine the differences observed between the groups. Results: The pre-test knowledge score for the mobile group was 71.25%, and for the book-based group, 70%. Post-test scores showed improvement: 78.19% for the mobile-based group and 74.6% for the book-based group. The t-value was 5.20, which exceeded the tabulated value (1.66) at p ≤ 0.05, indicating a statistically significant difference favouring mobile-based methods. These findings underscore the importance of integrating mobile technology into nursing education to enhance learning outcomes and support an evidence-based clinical practice.