Computer-based training and electronic publishing in the health sector: tools and trends

Area of Science:

• Medical Education Technology
• Digital Learning Tools

Background:

• Computer-based training (CBT) applications and hypermedia publications represent different computer utilizations in medical education.
• Medical CBT software has a limited role despite availability, while hypermedia is popular via the World Wide Web (WWW).

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the accessibility and production requirements of CBT applications versus hypermedia in medical education.
• To evaluate the potential cost-effectiveness of these digital tools, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of production requirements: CBT needs programming expertise, while hypermedia uses HTML and inexpensive tools, enabling non-programmers.
• Distribution methods: HTML documents can be web-server distributed or run as local applications.

Main Results:

• Hypermedia's reliance on HTML format facilitates easier creation by non-programmers, contrasting with CBT's programming demands.
• In developed countries, both compete with abundant traditional media; in developing countries, they offer a scarce and expensive alternative.

Conclusions:

• Hypermedia publications present a more accessible and potentially cost-effective method for enhancing health sector education quality, especially where traditional resources are limited.
• The ease of production and distribution of hypermedia makes it a more viable option for improving medical education in resource-constrained environments compared to traditional CBT.