The Effects of Content Delivery Methods on Ultrasound Knobology and Image Quality Recognition Training in First-Year Veterinary Students

Abstract

As new technologies are incorporated into the practice of veterinary medicine, it is imperative we utilize the most effective and impactful content delivery methods. Ultrasound technology has become more affordable and compact for veterinary hospitals, leading to easier incorporation into practice. This study compares three methods of delivering ultrasound knobology content to first-year veterinary students at Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. In a prospective study, first-year veterinary students were randomly selected to receive one of three content delivery methods: self-directed active learning (SDL), in-person instructor demonstration, or online module instruction. Knowledge acquisition was assessed using a 10-question quiz for short-term understanding followed by a 10-question quiz after a 6-week period to assess long-term knowledge retention. Student demographics were analyzed using the Chi-square test. Quiz scores were analyzed between groups using Kruskal-Wallis tests followed by Dunn's post-tests for multiple comparisons. Values of p ≤ .05 were considered significant. On the short-term and retention quiz questions, students participating in SDL scored significantly higher (10 [5-10]) than those receiving in-person instructor demonstration (9 [3-10] p = .01 and 8 [2-10] p = .0004, respectively) or the online module instruction training (Group C) (6 [1-10] p < 0.0001 and 8 [4-10] p < .001, respectively). Based on quiz scores, veterinary students exhibited better ultrasound knobology and image quality recognition proficiency immediately and at 6-weeks following SDL when compared with other content delivery methods. Self-directed learning methods are recommended when teaching ultrasonography to veterinary students.