[Model trial: use and evaluation of a problem-oriented learning program in internal medicine].
BACKGROUND
Problem-based training is a new approach in medical education. It is in particular essential that students work actively with authentic medical cases. Modern software is appropriate for developing interactive case-based training systems and the use in teaching environments. This method is still rarely integrated within medical curricula.


METHODS
In an educational trial with 287 students the conceptual background, feasibility and evaluation are discussed. The learning program CASUS was used to present the case of a macroprolactinoma for interactive training. A questionnaire with a return rate of 78% was used for evaluation.


RESULTS
96% of the students had no problems in learning how to handle and use the program. A major problem was to focus the contents of the program exactly to the students' needs. The students' judgement was independent of the individual computer skills. 82% of the students would like to use the program in the future.


CONCLUSIONS
Case-based and computer-assisted learning increases motivation and probably improves the quality in medical education. Controlled trials have to be implemented in future to show the effectiveness and the long-term output of these learning systems.
Gerike
T G
TG
Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik III, Universität Leipzig.
Baehring
T U
TU
Hentschel
B
B
Fischer
A
A
Scherbaum
W A
WA
D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction; D003479:Curriculum; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D006801:Humans; D007388:Internal Medicine / Q000193:education*; D018794:Problem-Based Learning; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012984:Software