A microcomputer application curriculum for emergency medicine residents using computer-assisted instruction.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education Technology
• Emergency Medicine Training
• Computer-Assisted Instruction

Background:

• Emergency medicine residents require training in essential computer applications.
• Traditional instruction methods may be time-consuming for faculty.
• Need for accessible, self-paced learning modules.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a microcomputer application curriculum for emergency medicine residents.
• To assess the perceived usefulness and impact of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) modules.
• To determine optimal placement within the residency program.

Main Methods:

• Development of a disk-based CAI curriculum covering microcomputers, operating systems, word processing, databases, and spreadsheets.
• Course delivered via self-contained tutorials with no faculty involvement required.
• Post-course survey administered to residents to gather feedback.

Main Results:

• All surveyed residents found the course helpful, averaging 3-6 hours completion time.
• Word processing was identified as the most valuable module.
• Majority recommended earlier integration into the residency program.

Conclusions:

• The CAI curriculum is an effective, faculty-independent educational tool for emergency medicine residents.
• Course content and delivery were well-received, with specific modules highly valued.
• The curriculum was successfully revised and moved to an earlier residency year based on feedback.