- J M Teichman: Division of Urology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio 78284-7845, USA.
OBJECTIVES: To test the hypothesis that an interactive multimedia-based computer application may be used to teach urology to undergraduate medical students.
METHODS: Third-year medical students rotating on their urology clerkship were studied. Student knowledge was measured with a multiple choice test administered in a pretest-post-test experimental design. The educational intervention was a multimedia-based application that presented a clinical module on hematuria, using natural language-like entries. Student attitudes toward the multimedia application were assessed by a survey.
RESULTS: Twenty-three consecutive third-year medical students participated. Mean pretest and post-test scores +/- standard deviation were 35%+/-11% versus 74%+/-17%, respectively, P<0.0001. Student questionnaire responses indicated highly positive opinions that the multimedia-based module was easy to use, was fun, provided natural patient responses, had clear exercises, provided immediate feedback, was educational, and had a nonthreatening format, and that the multiple choice questions were clear and fair.
CONCLUSIONS: Multimedia-based education may be used to teach urology to undergraduate medical students.