title: Learning by Computer Simulation Does Not Lead to Better Test Performance on Advanced Cardiac Life Support Than Textbook Study.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  For an effective acquisition and the practical application of rapidly increasing amounts of information, computer-based learning has already been introduced in medical education. However, there have been few studies that compare this innovative method to traditional learning methods in studying advanced cardiac life support (ACLS).
  
  
  METHODS
  Senior medical students were randomized to computer simulation and a textbook study. Each group studied ACLS for 150 minutes. Tests were done one week before, immediately after, and one week after the study period. Testing consisted of 20 questions. All questions were formulated in such a way that there was a single best answer. Each student also completed a questionnaire designed to assess computer skills as well as satisfaction with and benefit from the study materials.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Test scores improved after both textbook study and computer simulation study in both groups but the improvement in scores was significantly higher for the textbook group only immediately after the study. There was no significant difference between groups in their computer skill and satisfaction with the study materials. The textbook group reported greater benefit from study materials than did the computer simulation group.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Studying ACLS with a hard copy textbook may be more effective than computer simulation for the acquisition of simple information during a brief period. However, the difference in effectiveness is likely transient.
authors.affiliation: Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology.
authors.forename: Jong Hoon
authors.initials: JH
authors.lastname: Kim
authors.affiliation: Professor of Anesthesiology.
authors.forename: Won Oak
authors.initials: WO
authors.lastname: Kim
authors.affiliation: Associate Professor of Anesthesiology.
authors.forename: Kyeong Tae
authors.initials: KT
authors.lastname: Min
authors.affiliation: Professor of Anesthesiology.
authors.forename: Jong Yoon
authors.initials: JY
authors.lastname: Yang
authors.affiliation: Professor of Anesthesiology.
authors.forename: Yong Taek
authors.initials: YT
authors.lastname: Nam
keywords: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation; computer-assisted instruction; education, medical