Collation of student results in practical class experiments in physiology, using a BBC ECONET computer network

Area of Science:

• Physiology Education
• Educational Technology
• Computer-Assisted Instruction

Background:

• Undergraduate physiology education traditionally involves manual data analysis.
• Integrating technology in science education can enhance learning outcomes.
• Preparing students for computer use in medical practice is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of implementing microcomputers in undergraduate physiology practical classes.
• To assess the impact of computer-based data analysis on learning and student engagement.
• To determine if the technology improved teaching and prepared students for medical computing.

Main Methods:

• Acquisition of 20 BBC Master 128 microcomputers networked via ECONET.
• Development of a BASIC program for manual data entry and analysis of practical measurements.
• Presentation of results using frequency distribution histograms and X/Y graphs.
• Student assessment via questionnaire on teaching improvement and medical practice preparation.

Main Results:

• Reduced data analysis time for practical classes.
• Facilitated immediate comparison of individual results with class data.
• Enabled collaborative learning through group data sharing.
• Majority of students felt teaching improved and medical computing preparation was adequate.

Conclusions:

• Microcomputer implementation in physiology practicals is effective for data analysis and learning.
• Immediate feedback and comparison enhance student understanding and engagement.
• The system successfully prepared students for computer applications in medical practice.