Web-Based Virtual Environment Versus Face-To-Face Delivery for Team-Based Learning of Anesthesia Techniques Among...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education Technology
• Anesthesiology Training
• Digital Learning Environments

Background:

• Foundational anesthesia knowledge is crucial for medical students.
• Team-based learning (TBL) enhances student engagement.
• Web-based virtual environments (WBVEs) offer real-time, instructor-guided learning for multiple participants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of WBVE versus face-to-face (F2F) delivery of a TBL curriculum.
• To evaluate postclass knowledge acquisition and learner satisfaction between WBVE and F2F TBL.
• To assess the viability of WBVEs as a scalable educational tool in medical training.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded trial was conducted with fifth-year medical students at a Thai medical school.
• Participants were allocated to either a Spatial platform WBVE or F2F delivery of an identical 10-section anesthesiology TBL curriculum.
• Knowledge was assessed via multiple-choice questionnaires pre- and post-session; satisfaction was measured using a 5-point Likert scale.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in postclass knowledge scores was observed between the WBVE and F2F groups (P=.12).
• Learner satisfaction significantly favored the F2F group, particularly in overall course satisfaction (P=.01).
• The study reported no adverse events or technical failures, with both delivery modes executed as planned.

Conclusions:

• WBVE-delivered TBL achieved comparable short-term knowledge gains to F2F delivery in anesthesiology.
• Lower learner satisfaction in the WBVE group highlights the need for enhanced facilitation and user experience.
• WBVEs present a scalable option for medical education, contingent on addressing design and technical readiness for optimal implementation.