Table 3 Topical themes of dental students’ self-perceived responses about blended assessment (N = 89)

1. Exam Burden

1–1. [online OBEs] Reduced burden of memorizing unnecessary details; relieved anxiety

21

24

1–2. No significant difference in study time and mental efforts between CBEs and OBEs

17

19

2. Learning Effects of Exams

2–1. [online OBEs] Prompting an evaluation of all knowledge of clinical practices; employing logical thinking processes; enabling students to understand study materials comprehensively; encouraging deep learning

34

38

2–2. [class CBEs] Motivating students to spend more time gaining domain knowledge; knowledge retained for a longer period

17

19

3. Exam Environment

3–1. [online OBEs] Bringing about fairness issues; invigilators should be required

8

9

3–2. [online OBEs] Guaranteeing individual safety during the pandemic

7

8