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Incorporating iPads into a preclinical curriculum: a pilot study
Paul George1, Luba Dumenco, Richard Doyle
1Office of Medical Education, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA. Paul_George@brown.edu
Medical Teacher
|February 22, 2013
Summary
Medical students have mixed feelings about using iPads in their education. While valuable, the iPad may not fully replace traditional printed materials in the curriculum.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education Technology
- Undergraduate Medical Training
- Digital Learning Tools
Background:
- Technology integration is crucial in medical education.
- The impact of iPad technology in undergraduate medical education remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate student usage and attitudes towards iPads.
- To assess the effectiveness of iPad integration in the first-year medical curriculum.
Main Methods:
- Administered two surveys to first-year medical students.
- Conducted focus groups to gather qualitative data on iPad integration.
Main Results:
- Survey results showed mixed student attitudes regarding iPad use.
- A majority found value in iPads, but positive perceptions decreased over time.
- Focus groups revealed appreciation for interactivity but a preference for retaining printed handouts.
Conclusions:
- iPads offer certain advantages in undergraduate medical education.
- Further research is needed to optimize iPad integration into medical curricula.
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