Abstract
Understanding P values is difficult but essential for interpreting the medical literature. Graphic narratives (comics) facilitate scientific communication and may be an enjoyable way for learners to grasp difficult concepts [1], including the meaning of a P value. Previous studies have shown that comics improve student [2], patient [3], and resident [4] understanding of medical information and often outperform traditional instructional methods. Junhasavasdikul et al [2] found better third-year student results on a thoracostomy quiz in students randomized to a comic compared with a text-based handout.
Highlights
We performed a randomized trial to compare knowledge level by exposure to a comic or a traditional journal article describing P values among firstyear medical students
Within-group test score differences were analyzed with paired t tests; between-group test score differences were analyzed in a linear model with difference in test score from baseline as the response variable and group, age, and gender as predictors
Quiz score improvements were nearly identical in the two groups, increasing by 1.5 points from the Copyright a 2021 American College of Radiology
Summary
We performed a randomized trial to compare knowledge level by exposure to a comic or a traditional journal article describing P values among firstyear medical students. Four months after the study began, students were anonymously surveyed about their readings and asked if they agreed or disagreed that their reading (1) improved understanding of P values, (2) took < 30 min, (3) decreased anxiety about P values, and (4) was enjoyable. Of 70 students in the comic group, 59 (84%) completed all three quizzes; 63 of 70 (90%) of students in the article group did so.
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