Preparation With Web-Based Observational Practice Improves Efficiency of Simulation-Based Mastery Learning

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Simulation-Based Training
• Learning Sciences

Background:

• Effective simulation-based training relies on preparation, practice, and debriefing.
• Learner preparation for simulation training is an understudied area.
• This study investigates Web-based observational practice (OP) for preparing medical students for central venous catheterization workshops.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of Web-based observational practice (OP) in preparing novice medical students for simulation-based mastery learning (SBML) workshops.
• To compare different preparatory methods: reading materials (RM) only, RM with individual OP, and RM with collaborative OP (COP).
• To assess the impact of preparation on learning efficiency and engagement.

Main Methods:

• Thirty medical students were randomized into three groups: RM only, RM + individual OP, and RM + COP.
• Preparation occurred one week before the SBML workshop, with a retention test one week after.
• Learning efficiency was measured by time to completion (TTC) in the SBML workshop; website behavior data were also collected.

Main Results:

• Web-based OP groups showed significantly lower TTC than the RM-only group (P = 0.038, d = 0.74).
• No significant differences in retention performance were observed between groups.
• The COP group spent more time and provided more elaborate answers during the OP activity compared to the individual OP group.

Conclusions:

• Web-based observational practice (OP) is more effective than reading materials alone for preparing learners for SBML.
• Collaborative OP may enhance learner engagement and motivation.
• Web-based preparation, particularly OP, is a crucial factor for optimizing simulation instructional design.