Use of a programmed reinforcement exercise in teaching of embryology

In studying embryology, understanding of the initial complexities of cell division and patterns of prenatal growth demands ability in three-dimensional comprehension. A programmed reinforcement exercise (PRE) was designed to enable second year medical students to devote their complete attention to the explanatory component of lectures, to highlight salient features in lectures, and to improve the efficiency and active participation component of revision. The programmed reinforcement exercise was used in association with a concurrent programme in gross anatomy and its effectiveness was evaluated by a controlled trial in two consecutive lectures to 142 students. With the t-test and matched pair tabular analysis to assess results, students using the programmed reinforcement exercise achieved significantly higher scores in two 15-item multiple choice tests which were designed to appraise their short-term comprehension and data recall of lecture content.