A Systematic Review of Computer‐Assisted Learning in Endodontics Education

Abstract

Results of the efficacy and time efficiency of computer-assisted learning (CAL) in endodontics education are mixed in the literature. The objectives of this study were to compare the efficacy and time efficiency of CAL with traditional learning methods or no instruction. The search strategy included electronic and manual searches of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) completed in English up to June 2009. The intervention comprised any method of CAL, while the control group consisted of all traditional methods of instruction including no further instructions. Various outcome measures of CAL efficacy were considered and were categorized using Kirkpatrick's four-level model of evaluation: reaction, learning, behavior, results, with the addition of return on investment as a fifth level. The time efficiency of CAL was measured by the time spent on the learning material and the number of cases covered in a unit period. Seven RCTs met the inclusion criteria. Overall, students' attitudes were varied towards CAL. Results from the knowledge gain outcome were mixed. No conclusions can be made about students' performance on clinical procedures or cost-effectiveness of CAL. Better time efficiency was achieved using CAL compared to traditional methods. CAL is as efficacious as traditional methods in improving knowledge. There is some evidence to suggest that CAL is time efficient compared to traditional methods. Overall, the number of studies included in this review was small, thus warranting the need for more studies in this area and the exploration of various CAL techniques.Dr. Al-Jewair is an Orthodontic Resident,

Effectiveness of technology‐enhanced learning in Endodontic education: a systematic review and meta‐analysis

“…In the present review, attitudes amongst students towards TEL in Endodontic education varied and were similar to a previous review on CAL in Endodontics (Al‐Jewair et al . ). Hence, no conclusion could be drawn on attitudes of students towards TEL in Endodontic education.…”

“…Al‐Jewair et al . () went on to report that CAL and traditional method were similar in terms of Endodontic learning. Since 2010, various learning methods under the definition of TEL such as live demonstrations with instructional multimedia, virtual learning, online voice‐over screen‐captured lecture and VACID have been evaluated in Endodontic education.…”

“…That review concluded there was a need for more studies on various CAL techniques to be able to better understand the educational outcomes (Al‐Jewair et al . ). Since 2010, several advanced education methods have been evaluated in Endodontics such as online voice‐over screen‐captured lectures (Schönwetter et al .…”

“…In this context and due to the advantage and potentiality of the TEL in Endodontic education, a need arises to update the previous review (Al‐Jewair et al . ). Hence, this review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of TEL compared to traditional learning methods in the field of Endodontics in improving educational outcomes.…”

“…A systematic review (Al‐Jewair et al . ) that evaluated various methodologies such as computer‐assisted learning (CAL), computer simulation programmes, computer multimedia programmes, and CASE in Endodontic education concluded that it was efficacious in improving knowledge and was time efficient; however, it failed to demonstrate an improvement in student performance or in the cost‐effectiveness of Endodontic education. That review concluded there was a need for more studies on various CAL techniques to be able to better understand the educational outcomes (Al‐Jewair et al .…”