Peer-assisted versus expert-assisted learning in virtual chest x-ray interpretation: A randomized controlled trial.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Radiology Education

Background:

• Virtual learning environments are increasingly used in medical education.
• Chest x-ray (CXR) interpretation is a core skill for medical students.
• Comparing different pedagogical approaches is crucial for optimizing learning outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of peer-assisted learning (PAL) versus expert-assisted learning (EAL) for knowledge acquisition in virtual CXR interpretation.
• To evaluate and compare student satisfaction levels between PAL and EAL groups.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 166 second-year medical students.
• Students were randomly assigned to either PAL or EAL groups for virtual CXR interpretation training.
• Knowledge gain was assessed by independent reviewers, and satisfaction was measured via questionnaires.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in knowledge gain scores between the PAL and EAL groups (p=0.507).
• Students in the PAL group reported higher satisfaction regarding session usefulness (p=0.01), timeliness (p=0.043), and tutor facilitation (p=0.011).
• PAL participants perceived online teaching as effective as traditional methods (p=0.03).

Conclusions:

• Peer-assisted learning (PAL) demonstrates equivalent efficacy to expert-assisted learning (EAL) in virtual chest x-ray interpretation.
• Students engaged in PAL reported a superior level of satisfaction with the educational experience.