Computer-assisted instruction of carpal bone radiograph interpretation

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Radiology
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Effective interpretation of carpal bone radiographs is crucial for diagnosing wrist injuries.
• Clinical clerks often lack specialized training in interpreting complex radiographic images.
• Developing accessible and efficient teaching tools is essential for medical education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a computer-assisted self-directed learning module for teaching carpal bone radiograph interpretation.
• To assess the module's efficacy as a teaching tool for clinical clerks.

Main Methods:

• A computer-assisted learning module was created using authoring software in collaboration with radiologists.
• The module was integrated into an emergency medicine clerkship rotation.
• A sample of 36 volunteers underwent an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) to test radiograph interpretation skills.

Main Results:

• Clinical clerks who completed the module achieved OSCE scores comparable to experienced emergency medicine residents (mean score 5 vs. 6).
• Trainees who did not complete the module scored significantly lower (mean score 2).
• The module demonstrated a positive impact on the radiograph interpretation abilities of clinical clerks.

Conclusions:

• The developed computer-assisted learning module is an effective tool for teaching carpal bone radiograph interpretation to clinical clerks.
• Self-directed learning modules can enhance diagnostic skills in medical trainees.
• This approach offers a scalable solution for improving radiographic interpretation education.