Implementation of an Audience Response System in a Case Conference Curriculum: Results of a Placebo-Controlled Trial

Audience response systems engage learners and facilitate the assimilation of the material. We assessed whether incorporation of one system into a resident case conference would increase retention of information and attentiveness. Pre-tests were administered prior to case conferences. The University Hospital incorporated Poll Everywhere into a conference and the Veterans Administration hospital did not. Participants rated self-perceived attentiveness and completed a post-test following conference. There was an increase in post-test scores compared to pre-tests. There was no significant difference in self-perceived attentiveness or post-test scores between sites. The use of audience response did not increase retention of material or perceived attentiveness when incorporated into the conference.