Abstract
Perceptive and adaptive learning modules (PALMs) provide a large number of visual examples for evaluation and accommodate to learner performance by actively adjusting the module parameters. We developed a module for discriminating 5 inflammatory reaction patterns using the Novel Diagnostic Educational Resource (NDER) platform. The module included a 20 question pre-test, a 200 question training section, and a 20 question post-test. During the pre-test and post-test, images were displayed for an indefinite period of time with no feedback given. In the training section, images were displayed for a duration inverse to learner performance, and after submitting their response learners were immediately shown the correct answer. The performance of module participants was compared to a control group who completed pre- and post-tests only. 26 pathology and dermatology residents completed the module and were included in analysis. Pre-test and post-test scores showed an average increase of 17.1 percentage points (95% CI 13.0 to 21.2, p <0.001), with the average score increasing from 75.8% to 92.9%. When performance on pre-test and post-tests was compared between the module and control groups, module group performance increased more than control group performance by an average of 10.1 percentage points (95% CI -2.5 to 17.8, p = 0.0119). 85.2% (40) of participants found the module somewhat useful or very useful and 71.7% (33) of participants would be pretty likely or very likely to recommend to another trainee. Our findings validate the use of NDER for teaching inflammatory reaction patterns. Next steps include optimizing module performance and developing module content for more advanced learners.
Financial Disclosure:
No current or relevant financial relationships exist.