Effectiveness of computer assisted instruction and small-group review in teaching clinical calculation

This study compared the effectiveness of computer assisted instruction (CAI) and small-group review in teaching clinical calculation to associate degree nursing (ADN) students. Subjects were 123 ADN students randomly assigned to receive 50 minutes of supplemental instruction in clinical calculation by means of CAI or small-group review. Both CAI and small-group review were based on Gagné's events of instruction. An analysis of covariance of the scores on a 20-item exam, developed by five expert faculty members and having a Kuder-Richardson Formula 20 (KR-20) of 0.74, revealed no significant difference in performance between groups. The authors concluded that, when teaching strategies are comparable, CAI is as effective as small group review among ADN students for supplemental instruction in clinical calculation.