Time and learning efficiency in Internet-based learning: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Authors have claimed that Internet-based instruction promotes greater learning efficiency than non-computer methods.


OBJECTIVE
determine, through a systematic synthesis of evidence in health professions education, how Internet-based instruction compares with non-computer instruction in time spent learning, and what features of Internet-based instruction are associated with improved learning efficiency.


METHODS
we searched databases including MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, and ERIC from 1990 through November 2008. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA ABSTRACTION we included all studies quantifying learning time for Internet-based instruction for health professionals, compared with other instruction. Reviewers worked independently, in duplicate, to abstract information on interventions, outcomes, and study design.


RESULTS
we identified 20 eligible studies. Random effects meta-analysis of 8 studies comparing Internet-based with non-Internet instruction (positive numbers indicating Internet longer) revealed pooled effect size (ES) for time -0.10 (p = 0.63). Among comparisons of two Internet-based interventions, providing feedback adds time (ES 0.67, p =0.003, two studies), and greater interactivity generally takes longer (ES 0.25, p = 0.089, five studies). One study demonstrated that adapting to learner prior knowledge saves time without significantly affecting knowledge scores. Other studies revealed that audio narration, video clips, interactive models, and animations increase learning time but also facilitate higher knowledge and/or satisfaction. Across all studies, time correlated positively with knowledge outcomes (r = 0.53, p = 0.021).


CONCLUSIONS
on average, Internet-based instruction and non-computer instruction require similar time. Instructional strategies to enhance feedback and interactivity typically prolong learning time, but in many cases also enhance learning outcomes. Isolated examples suggest potential for improving efficiency in Internet-based instruction.
Cook
David A
DA
Division of General Internal Medicine and Office of Education Research, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Baldwin 4-A, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. cook.david33@mayo.edu
Levinson
Anthony J
AJ
Garside
Sarah
S
D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D016001:Confidence Intervals; D003479:Curriculum; D020375:Education, Distance / Q000379:methods; D018961:Educational Technology / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D006281:Health Occupations / Q000193:education; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D013223:Statistics as Topic; D013663:Teaching; D013995:Time; D017748:Time Management / Q000379:methods*