A decision-making learning and assessment tool in laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Abstract

Our computer-based decision-making learning tool for laparoscopic cholecystectomy seems to have face, content, concurrent and construct validities. Surgical decision making is a multifaceted process; by assessing how and why decisions are made effectively, focussed surgical training may be achieved. We aim in the future to determine if the self-appraisal decision-making tool improves or accelerates surgical training.

Using Cognitive Task Analysis to Identify Critical Decisions in the Laparoscopic Environment

“…Such low-fidelity training formats may be nearly as effective as high-physical-fidelity training formats, as long as the cognitive processes are the same as those in the real world (Gopher, Weil, & Bareket, 1994). Along these lines, there have been software programs that provide modules to train decision-making ability, and these programs appear to be effective at improving student understanding and distinguishing between expert and novice abilities on decision making and technique but not knowledge (Sarker, Rehman, Ladwa, Chang, & Vincent, 2009; Servais et al, 2006). We recommend that novices begin decision-making training as they begin mastery of surgical content such that training occurs within the surgical context (Luker et al, 2008).…”

Defining Decision Making: A Qualitative Study of International Experts’ Views on Surgical Trainee Decision Making

“…There is now increasing attention regarding decision making within the context of the operating room [4,[11][12][13][14]. However, most of this research is context-specific, related to only one condition or operation, and, as such is not completely transferable to other situations that surgical trainees may face, e.g.…”

Surgical Education

“…One of the few "think-aloud" studies was conducted by Abernathy and Hamm (1994), who asked a master surgeon to "think aloud" about how to treat sick patients in different scenarios. The methodology that most closely resembles an application of the expert-performance approach to surgery is illustrated in a recent study by Sarker et al (2009). The methodology that most closely resembles an application of the expert-performance approach to surgery is illustrated in a recent study by Sarker et al (2009).…”