The effectiveness of computer-aided, self-instructional programs in dental education: a systematic review of the literature

Computer-aided learning (CAL), self-instructional programs provide an accessible, interactive, and flexible way of presenting curriculum material. In order to assess the effectiveness of CAL programs in dental education, a systematic review of the published literature comparing CAL with other teaching methods was performed. A systematic search of the published literature was performed. Articles formally assessed for inclusion had to meet the following criteria: randomized controlled trials comparing CAL with any other method of instruction, and the use of academically homogeneous dental students or dental professionals with objective, predefined outcome criteria measuring performance, time spent, and attitudes. The searches located a total of 1,042 articles; of these, only twenty-seven articles met the inclusion criteria. Further quality assessment identified twelve studies that were included in the final review. Five of the studies documented statistically significant differences in outcome measures (scores on multiple choice, written or oral tests, and clinical performance) favoring CAL over comparison group(s), while six revealed no statistically significant differences. One study documented a greater improvement in test scores in the seminar group over the CAL group. Participants' attitudes towards CAL in the included studies are also discussed. Our study concluded that CAL is as effective as other methods of teaching and can be used as an adjunct to traditional education or as a means of self-instruction.