Comparison of Teaching about Breast Cancer via Mobile or Traditional Learning Methods in Gynecology Residents

Abstract

Introduction: Mobile learning enables users to interact with educational resources while in variable locations. Medical students in residency positions need to assimilate considerable knowledge besides their practical training and we therefore aimed to evaluate the impact of using short message service via cell phone as a learning tool in residents of Obstetrics and Gynecology in our hospital. Methods: We sent short messages including data about breast cancer to the cell phones of 25 residents of gynecology and obstetrics and asked them to study a well-designed booklet containing another set of information about the disease in the same period. The rate of learning derived from the two methods was compared by pre-and post-tests and self-satisfaction assessed by a relevant questionnaire at the end of the program. Results: The mobile learning method had a significantly better effect on learning and created more interest in the subject. Conclusion: Learning via receiving SMS can be an effective and appealing method of knowledge acquisition in higher levels of education.

Knowledge of Breast Cancer and Breast Self-Examination Practice among Iranian Women in Hamedan, Iran

“…Another similar studies found that nearly half of the students reported their main sources of information on breast cancer and BSE was the media (Noroozi et al, 2011;Redhwan et al, 2011). In contrast, Alipour et al (2012) reported using the short message service (SMS) via cell phone had a significantly better effect in improving the knowledge about breast cancer and mention as main sources of information on breast cancer.…”

Teaching Breast Cancer Screening via Text Messages as Part of Continuing Education for Working Nurses: A Case-control Study

“…Alipour et al compared learning effect and learner's satisfaction in paper-based and SMS-based method in doctors practicing as gynecology residents by handling printed material and text messages about breast cancer facts and performing pre-and post tests for both methods. They detected a significantly better effect and higher motivation in the SMS group (Alipour et al, 2012).…”

Text Messaging in Medical Education

“…9,10 Information sent via text message can be quickly read by the recipient and does not require the user to access the Internet, log-in to an e-mail account, or download any document; this fast-paced style appeals to medical trainees. Text messaging in medical education can function as both a private or a broad (group) method of communication.…”

“…[8][9][10] One of the more applicable studies assessed learning in obstetrics and gynecology. 10 Residents received information on breast cancer both via text message (2 or 3 messages per day for 17 days) and through a printed booklet.…”

“…[8][9][10] One of the more applicable studies assessed learning in obstetrics and gynecology. 10 Residents received information on breast cancer both via text message (2 or 3 messages per day for 17 days) and through a printed booklet. Whereas both groups improved, pre-and posttest scores revealed that the residents performed significantly better on the questions that referenced information provided to them via text message, and residents also felt more motivated to learn from the texted messages.…”