Game-based versus traditional case-based learning: comparing effectiveness in stroke continuing medical education.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate family physicians' enjoyment of and knowledge gained from game-based learning, compared with traditional case-based learning, in a continuing medical education (CME) event on stroke prevention and management.


METHODS
An equivalence trial to determine if game-based learning was as effective as case-based learning in terms of attained knowledge levels. Game questions and small group cases were developed. Participants were randomized to either a game-based or a case-based group and took part in the event.


METHODS
Ontario provincial family medicine conference.


METHODS
Thirty-two family physicians and 3 senior family medicine residents attending the conference.


METHODS
Participation in either a game-based or a case-based CME learning group.


METHODS
Scores on 40-item immediate and 3-month posttests of knowledge and a satisfaction survey.


RESULTS
Results from knowledge testing immediately after the event and 3 months later showed no significant difference in scoring between groups. Participants in the game-based group reported higher levels of satisfaction with the learning experience.


CONCLUSIONS
Games provide a novel way of organizing CME events. They might provide more group interaction and discussion, as well as improve recruitment to CME events. They might also provide a forum for interdisciplinary CME. Using games in future CME events appears to be a promising approach to facilitate participant learning.
Telner
Deanna
D
Department of Family Medicine, Toronto East General Hospital, and Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, 840 Coxwell Ave, Suite 105, Toronto, ON M4C 5T2. deanna.telner@utoronto.ca
Bujas-Bobanovic
Maja
M
Chan
David
D
Chester
Bob
B
Marlow
Bernard
B
Meuser
James
J
Rothman
Arthur
A
Harvey
Bart
B
D016022:Case-Control Studies; D002983:Clinical Competence; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing; D004521:Educational Measurement; D005194:Family Practice / Q000193:education*; D005260:Female; D005717:Games, Experimental; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009864:Ontario; D018794:Problem-Based Learning / Q000379:methods*; D015397:Program Evaluation; D013192:Staff Development; D020521:Stroke / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires