Interactive Computer-aided Assessment, an Adjunct to the Behavioral Sciences Courses: A Pilot Project to Introduce Computer-Aided Education and Assessment

Iverson C. Bell Jr., M.D., Kim Sutton, Ph.D., Perry Riggins

Morehouse School of Medicine

Abstract:

Interactive Computer-aided Assessment, an Adjunct to the Behavioral Sciences Courses:

A Pilot Project to Introduce Computer-aided Education and Assessment

USMLE scores are an important tool used to measure progress. The importance of integration of computer-based materials in the curriculum is emphasized by the current computer-based administration of the USMLE Step 1. Teaching and assessment methods must change in recognition of this, to better prepare students. Any new teaching and assessment modalities used should ideally work with minimal increase in the demands on the faculty. Students located at different sites should have access to the same standardized material without the necessity of travel.

A computer software program has been developed that allows students to use a (school or remote) computer to assess their knowledge of Human Behavior and Psychopathology via case studies and interactive questions (case-based learning). Each group of students will study the included psychiatric cases and be prompted to answer questions regarding the specific diagnosis and treatment. The questions will be interactive and prompt them to answer more questions or direct the students to reference material. Successful completion of a certain percent of each case’s questions will be necessary to progress to the next case (test). The student groups will be able to take a series of at least four cases (tests) and get immediate feedback based on their answers. The student groups can then choose to either submit the passing score for each test and move to the next, or retake the test for better understanding. The ability to take, retake and research the questions immediately, should facilitate learning. The design of the case scenarios allows for a multidisciplinary view of the patient as well. Students may work in groups to negotiate through the case studies or may work independently. This modality will allow for a trial of “distance learning” and assessment under controlled circumstances.

This is different than commercially available software in that:

a) Media rich (includes video)

b) Can be used on an intranet, the Internet, or on CD-ROM

c) Psychiatry is the focus, while maintaining a multidisciplinary view of the patient.

Benefit in Attending Session:

This presentation will show how case-based learning can be integrated into an introductory Psychiatry course. Interactive multimedia is used to maintain the users interest and enhance their learning. The cases are multidisciplinary to help the students see psychiatry as an integral part of medicine.

PRIMARY AUTHOR'S INFORMATION

Iverson C. Bell Jr., M.D.

Department of Psychiatry

Morehouse School of Medicine

720 Westview Drive SW

Atlanta, Georgia 30310

Telephone Number: 770-394-9562

Fax Number: 404-756-1459

E-mail Address: ibellmd@msm.edu

CO-AUTHORS' INFORMATION

Kim Sutton PhD

Perry Riggins

Morehouse School of Medicine

720 Westview Drive SW

Atlanta, Georgia 30310

Telephone Number(s): 404-752-1500