Web-based versus traditional lecture: are they equally effective as a flexible bronchoscopy teaching method?

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Respiratory Medicine

Background:

• Traditional live lectures are a common method for teaching complex procedures like bronchoscopy.
• Evaluating novel educational approaches is crucial for improving medical training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of a web-based bronchoscopy curriculum against traditional live lectures.
• To identify the advantages and disadvantages of both educational methods.

Main Methods:

• A web-based curriculum with text, images, and animations was developed.
• First-year interns were divided into two groups: one using the web-based curriculum, the other receiving traditional lectures.
• Both groups were assessed using the same multiple-choice test and compared via Student's t-test.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant difference was found between the test scores of the web-based group (mean 14.63 ± 1.41) and the traditional lecture group (mean 14.75 ± 1).
• Both groups appreciated the multimedia content.
• The web group valued the ability to review content, while the traditional group favored teacher interaction.

Conclusions:

• Web-based bronchoscopy education is an effective alternative to traditional live lectures.
• Integrating multimedia enhances the learning experience in both formats.
• Learner preferences vary, with benefits in self-paced review for online and direct interaction for traditional methods.