Online, game-based education for melanoma recognition: A pilot study.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Medical Education
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Melanoma (MM) recognition is crucial for early detection and improved patient outcomes.
• Online health information seeking is increasing, necessitating effective digital educational tools.
• Traditional educational methods may not always engage patients effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a game-based learning (GBL) intervention, Tapamole, for improving melanoma recognition.
• To compare the efficacy of the GBL intervention against a written educational pamphlet.
• To assess patient enjoyment associated with the GBL intervention.

Main Methods:

• Participants were recruited from a dermatology waiting room and randomized into three groups: game, pamphlet, or no intervention.
• A pre-intervention survey, post-intervention survey, and melanoma recognition test were administered.
• Statistical analysis included calculating sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy, with generalized estimating equations (GEE) used for group comparisons.

Main Results:

• The game group achieved 100% sensitivity in melanoma recognition, compared to 95% in the pamphlet group.
• Specificity and accuracy rates were comparable between the game and pamphlet groups.
• Participants in the game group reported significantly higher enjoyment levels than those in the pamphlet group.

Conclusions:

• Game-based learning (GBL) is as effective as traditional written interventions in educating patients about melanoma features.
• GBL interventions offer an enjoyable and effective alternative for patient education.
• Online GBL tools should be considered for improving patient education on melanoma.