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Computer-assisted instruction in Australian medical schools
1Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Vic.
The Medical Journal of Australia
|August 2, 1993
Summary
Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) is rapidly expanding in Australian medical schools, but its use is uncoordinated. This rapid growth may increase overall development costs for educational technology.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Educational Technology
Background:
- Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) is increasingly utilized in medical education.
- Understanding the current landscape of CAI adoption is crucial for strategic development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey the current use of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) in undergraduate medical education across Australia.
- To identify trends and variations in CAI implementation among Australian medical schools.
Main Methods:
- A national postal questionnaire survey was distributed to deans and department heads at all Australian medical schools.
- High response rates were achieved: 90% of deans and 88% of department heads participated.
Main Results:
- Significant variation exists in CAI adoption across departments and faculties.
- 36% of departments currently use CAI, with 65% of non-users planning or desiring to implement it.
- Resource allocation and policy development for CAI varied considerably between institutions.
Conclusions:
- CAI in Australian medical schools is experiencing rapid, yet uncoordinated, expansion.
- The uncoordinated growth of CAI may lead to significantly increased overall development costs.