Auditorium Presentation

Integrating Palmtop Computers into the Medical Curriculum

John Jackson, M.Ed.
University of Virginia School of Medicine

Abstract:

In July of 1998 the University of Virginia School of Medicine initiated a research study to measure the usefulness of palmtop computers in the pediatrics and medicine clerkships. Randomly selected students were trained in the use of thirty HP 360lx palmtops running Windows CE 2.0 and PocketChart. The palmtop training covered: writing H&P's, SOAP notes and other patient documentation, researching clinical topics using online versions of Harrison's, Scientific American Medicine, MedLine and other resources, reading and writing E-mail, and maintaining to-do lists, calendars and contact databases. Before their training students completed a survey of their prior computer experience, and their attitude concerning their ability to produce accurate and thorough documentation. Students wer supplied with constant support when difficulties arose and infrastructure enhancements were made to accommodate students' requests. At the end of a four-week rotation the students completed a post experience survey that reported t

The results of the year-long study will be discussed, as well as implementation issues that should be considered by any institution considering a similar program. Future implementation plans will be described. Recent developments in palmtop technology and their impact on medical education will be discussed.

Benefit in Attending Session:

Attendees will become acquainted with the logistical issues of implementing palmtops in a medical curriculum and students' perceptions of usefulness of palmtop computing in its current state.

John Jackson
Univ. of Virginia
HSC 555
Charlottesville, VA 22908
	
(804)924-1528
Fax Number:
(804)982-4030
jjackson@virginia.eduwww.med.virginia.edu/med-ed/