Computer aided learning versus standard lecture for undergraduate education in urology.

PURPOSE

The current model of undergraduate medical education is under debate since knowledge retention and student interest seem to be decreasing. To clarify this situation we developed and evaluated a computer aided learning program using a multimedia presentation about prostate cancer for undergraduate teaching in urology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 60 medical students from years 2 and 3 were divided into group 1-31 who used the multimedia program and group 2-29 who attended a standard lecture on the same subject. At the end the level of knowledge acquisition for the 2 groups was evaluated by a multiple choice test. Group 1 students also answered a questionnaire about subjective feelings on computer based teaching.

RESULTS

Test performance in groups 1 and 2 was similar (60% vs 62% correct answers, p >0.05). On the other hand, 23 of 31 students using the multimedia program believed that it did not adequately replace the instructor and interaction with a mentor still seems to be relevant.

CONCLUSIONS

According to this study computers and multimedia programs can be used for undergraduate education in urology, providing that direct contact with an instructor is concomitantly offered to students.