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Use of computer-based instruction in athletic training education
1A. Louise Fincher is Director of Education at Joe W. King Orthopedic Institute, 7401 S. Main, Houston, TX 77030.
Journal of Athletic Training
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Over half of athletic training programs use computer-based instruction (CBI), primarily computer-assisted instruction, to supplement learning. Lack of funding is the main barrier, though program directors show positive attitudes toward CBI in athletic training education.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine Education
- Allied Health Professions Education
- Educational Technology
Background:
- Computer-based instruction (CBI) is prevalent in allied health professions but underdocumented in athletic training.
- Athletic training education programs have varying adoption rates of CBI.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the use of CBI in undergraduate and graduate athletic training programs.
- To identify software, implementation methods, and barriers to CBI adoption.
- To assess program directors' attitudes toward CBI in athletic training.
Main Methods:
- Surveys were distributed to 97 program directors of NATA-approved athletic training programs.
- A response rate of 87.7% was achieved, with 86 usable surveys returned.
- Data collected included CBI usage, software types, implementation strategies, and perceived barriers.
Main Results:
- 55.8% of programs utilize some form of CBI, with computer-assisted instruction (54.7%) being most common.
- Software primarily supplements traditional teaching methods.
- Insufficient funding was the primary impediment for non-adopting programs.
Conclusions:
- A majority of athletic training programs are integrating CBI, particularly computer-assisted instruction.
- Financial constraints are the main obstacle to wider CBI adoption.
- There is a positive outlook on CBI, with a recognized need for more specialized athletic training/sports medicine software.