Web-based collaborative training of clinical reasoning: A randomized trial

Abstract

Background: Clinical reasoning skills are essential for medical practice. Problem-based collaborative learning via the internet might prove useful in imparting these skills. Aim: This randomized study assessed whether web-based learning (WBL) is superior to face-to-face problem-based learning (PBL) in the setting of a 6-week cardio-respiratory course. Methods: During winter term 2007/08, all 148 fourth-year medical students enrolled in the 6-week course consented to be randomized in small groups to diagnose a patient complaining of dyspnoea either using a virtual collaborative online module or a traditional PBL session. Clinical reasoning skills were assessed by means of a key feature examination at the end of the course. Results: No significant difference between the mean scores of both study groups was detected ( p ¼ 0.843). In virtual learning groups, costs for diagnostic tests were significantly correlated to the number of contributions to online group discussions (r ¼ 0.881; p ¼ 0.002). Evaluation data favored traditional PBL sessions over virtual collaborative learning. Conclusion: While virtual collaborative learning was as effective as traditional PBL regarding the acquisition of clinical reasoning skills, it was less well accepted than traditional PBL. Future research needs to determine the ideal format and time-point for computer-assisted learning in medical education.

Morning Report Blog: A Web-Based Tool to Enhance Case-Based Learning

“…A blog created to teach clinical reasoning skills to medical students in a problem-based learning session was as effective as traditional problem-based learning sessions; however, post hoc surveys demonstrated that students were not as accepting of online learning as a teaching modality. 15 Our survey data at 6 months and 1 year combined with Web metric data suggest that the morning report blog was accessed frequently and that it was perceived as a useful educational tool.…”

Using technology to enhance physical therapy students’ problem-solving skills around safe patient handling

“…However, similar lack of effect for virtual or web-based problem-based learning activities on clinical reasoning skills has been previously reported, albeit in medical students. 42 The lack of randomization to the online scenarios may be considered a limitation; however, had this been adopted, it is possible that contamination of the two student cohorts would have occurred as students study alongside their peers on a daily basis.…”

Case-based e-learning to improve the attitude of medical students towards occupational health, a randomised controlled trial

“…Raupach et al 10 reported virtual collaborative learning to be as effective as problem-based learning sessions in the acquisition of reasoning skills in fourth year medical students. However, e-learning could increase the interest of medical students by maximising the use of clinical relevance 11.…”