A review of computer assisted learning in medical undergraduates

Abstract

Laboratory based practical classes, have been the corner stone of undergraduate pharmacology learning. Ethical issues with the use of animals and rapid development of information technology has led to newer trends in teaching and learning such as computer assisted learning. Computer assisted learning (CAL) software includes computer based packages, focusing on interactive instruction in a specific subject area, collection of animal experiments that encourage students to understand concepts in pharmacology. CAL offers a number of advantages to both students and teachers; most important being meeting the learning objectives. Few disadvantages and pitfalls to implementation in medical schools are also associated with CAL sessions. This article reviews the trend of CAL in pharmacology, advantages, disadvantages and pitfalls to the implementation of CAL.

Computer assisted learning (CAL) as a teaching learning method in teaching experimental pharmacology

“…Ethical issues with the use of animals and rapid development of information technology has led to newer trends in teaching and learning such as computer assisted learning. 1 Preliminary studies indicate that the introduction of multimedia CAL is popular with undergraduates 2 and that the appreciation of the programs is not influenced by any previous computer experience nor by a predominance of a mathematical or biological background prior to the tertiary education level. Moreover, there was a high rank correlation between assessment of student performance by computer and traditional appraisal by written examination.…”

Comparison of computer simulation and graphical illustration for teaching experimental pharmacology to undergraduate students

“…18 CAL models give non-conflicting results without any experimental errors, as compared to conventional animal experiments. 7 A large number of students can perform the experiment simultaneously. The effects of a large number of drugs (at varying dose ranges) which are reproducible, can be clearly visualized in CAL in a relatively short period of time.…”

“…[14][15][16][17] A large number of studies from several medical colleges have documented CAL as an effective tool as regards to its usefulness in providing knowledge as well as in attaining learning objectives. 7,[18][19][20][21] Consequently, CAL is being implemented now and is the most widely used invaluable component of experimental pharmacology in medical colleges. 7,22,23 It is a software of simulated experiments, which provides interactive instructions pertaining to a particular subject in a user friendly manner.…”

“…7,[18][19][20][21] Consequently, CAL is being implemented now and is the most widely used invaluable component of experimental pharmacology in medical colleges. 7,22,23 It is a software of simulated experiments, which provides interactive instructions pertaining to a particular subject in a user friendly manner. 18 CAL models give non-conflicting results without any experimental errors, as compared to conventional animal experiments.…”

“…2 In the recent years, the undergraduate training in pharmacology has made progression with the use of several new teaching techniques namely small group discussions, problem based learning, role play demonstration, case based learning, software programs like Computer assisted learning (CAL), graphical illustrations, clinical pharmacology studies. [5][6][7][8] Student feedback plays a vital role in the implementation of newer teaching learning methods. 9 With the ban of animal experiments for teaching and learning in medical colleges in India, the scope of experimental pharmacology has become limited.…”