The Importance of Human-Computer Interaction in Radiology E-learning.

Annemarie M Den Harder,Anouk Van Der Gijp,Anne E Oosterbaan,Marissa Frijlingh,Cécile J Ravesloot

doi:10.1007/s10278-015-9828-y

Abstract

With the development of cross-sectional imaging techniques and transformation to digital reading of radiological imaging, e-learning might be a promising tool in undergraduate radiology education. In this systematic review of the literature, we evaluate the emergence of image interaction possibilities in radiology e-learning programs and evidence for effects of radiology e-learning on learning outcomes and perspectives of medical students and teachers. A systematic search in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, ERIC, and PsycInfo was performed. Articles were screened by two authors and included when they concerned the evaluation of radiological e-learning tools for undergraduate medical students. Nineteen articles were included. Seven studies evaluated e-learning programs with image interaction possibilities. Students perceived e-learning with image interaction possibilities to be a useful addition to learning with hard copy images and to be effective for learning 3D anatomy. Both e-learning programs with and without image interaction possibilities were found to improve radiological knowledge and skills. In general, students found e-learning programs easy to use, rated image quality high, and found the difficulty level of the courses appropriate. Furthermore, they felt that their knowledge and understanding of radiology improved by using e-learning. In conclusion, the addition of radiology e-learning in undergraduate medical education can improve radiological knowledge and image interpretation skills. Differences between the effect of e-learning with and without image interpretation possibilities on learning outcomes are unknown and should be subject to future research.

Highlights

E-learning refers to the use of electronic media and network technologies for educational purposes and includes for example the use of audio, digital images, and web-based learning [1].Due to the digital revolution, e-learning evolved rapidly in the past decades [2]
We evaluate the emergence of image interaction in radiology e-learning programs in radiology education literature and the existing evidence of effects of radiology e-learning programs with and without image interaction possibilities on learning outcomes and perspectives of medical students and teachers
Some results suggest that the addition of e-learning to traditional learning can lead to improved radiological knowledge and image interpretation skills

Summary

Introduction

E-learning refers to the use of electronic media and network technologies for educational purposes and includes for example the use of audio, digital images, and web-based learning [1]. Due to the digital revolution, e-learning evolved rapidly in the past decades [2]. It is expected that e-learning will play an increasing role in future medical education and teaching strategies will change [3]. E-learning in general has several advantages over traditional, non-digital learning. E-learning gives learners the opportunity to learn at any time and at any location [4]. E-lectures can be followed at home using the internet. Other types of study material, like animation and video clips, and interactive programs can be used. The possibility to reach a high number of students might lead to cost reduction [3, 5]

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Conclusion