title: The effect of blocked versus random task practice schedules on the acquisition and retention of surgical skills.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  When learning multiple tasks, blocked or random training schedules may be used. We assessed the effects of blocked and random schedules on the acquisition and retention of laparoscopic skills.
  
  
  METHODS
  Thirty-six laparoscopic novices were randomized to practice laparoscopic tasks using blocked, random, or no additional training. Participants performed immediate post-tests, followed by retention tests 6 weeks later. Outcomes included previously validated Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) and hand-motion efficiency scores.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Both blocked and random groups had significantly higher FLS and hand-motion efficiency scores over baseline on post-tests for each task (P < .05) and higher overall FLS scores than controls on retention tests (P < .01). No difference was seen between the blocked and random groups in the amount of skill acquired or skill retained.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Both blocked and random training schedules can be considered as valid training options to allow programs and learners to tailor training to their individual needs.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University of Manitoba, Health Sciences Centre, GF434-820 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3A 1R9, Canada. Electronic address: justindrivard@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Justin D
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Rivard
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University of Manitoba, Health Sciences Centre, GF434-820 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3A 1R9, Canada.
authors.forename: Ashley S
authors.initials: AS
authors.lastname: Vergis
authors.affiliation: Medical Education, University of Manitoba, Health Sciences Centre, GF434-820 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3A 1R9, Canada.
authors.forename: Bertram J
authors.initials: BJ
authors.lastname: Unger
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University of Manitoba, Health Sciences Centre, GF434-820 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3A 1R9, Canada.
authors.forename: Lawrence M
authors.initials: LM
authors.lastname: Gillman
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University of Manitoba, Health Sciences Centre, GF434-820 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3A 1R9, Canada.
authors.forename: Krista M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Hardy
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University of Manitoba, Health Sciences Centre, GF434-820 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3A 1R9, Canada.
authors.forename: Jason
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Park
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001071:Appointments and Schedules; D002983:Clinical Competence; D004503:Education, Medical, Graduate / Q000379:methods / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000193:education*; D008297:Male; D008350:Manitoba; D012153:Retention, Psychology; D013043:Specialties, Surgical / Q000193:education*; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis
keywords: Computer-assisted assessment; Contextual interference; Education; Laparoscopic surgery; Simulation; Technical skills