Evaluation of a particle repositioning maneuver Web-based teaching module.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the pass rate of residents performing the Particle Repositioning Maneuver (PRM) after one of three interventions: 1) small group PRM instruction (SG); 2) standard classroom instruction (CI); and 3) Web-based learning module (WM). We hypothesize that our Web-based learning module is more effective than CI and as effective as SG.


METHODS
Prospective randomized control trial.


METHODS
The study population includes all family medicine residents at the University of Western Ontario. On day 0, all subjects were tested. Residents were then randomized to one of three intervention groups: 1) SG, 2) CI, or 3) WM. On day 7, the residents were again tested. Observers were blinded to the intervention type. Testing (day 0 and day 7) was performed using the DizzyFIX (Clearwater Clinical Ltd., London, Ontario, Canada), a pass/fail test, and evaluation by a trained observer (correct or incorrect).


RESULTS
There were no statistically significant differences in pass rates between the three groups before the interventions (DizzyFIX: P = .2096, observer: P = .3710). After the interventions, DizzyFIX testing pass rates were 50.0% SG, 60.0% CI and 100.0% WM (P = .3564). Observer testing pass rates were 85.7% SG, 28.6% CI, and 83.3% WM (P = .0431).


CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrated that our Web-based learning module for the PRM is comparable to small-group clinical instruction, and superior to standard classroom instruction for teaching the PRM when evaluated by a trained observer.
Beyea
Jason Atkins
JA
Div. of Head and Neck Oncology/Reconstructive Surgery, Dept. of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Hospital, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, Ontario, Canada.
Wong
Eric
E
Bromwich
Matthew
M
Weston
W Wayne
WW
Fung
Kevin
K
D001296:Audiovisual Aids; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction; D005194:Family Practice / Q000193:education*; D005246:Feedback; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D007396:Internship and Residency; D010036:Otolaryngology / Q000193:education; D016037:Single-Blind Method; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods*; D014717:Vertigo / Q000628:therapy*