Accepted for/Published in: Journal of Medical Internet Research
Date Submitted: Sep 18, 2019
Date Accepted: Feb 22, 2020
Development and Assessment of a Gastroscopy E-learning System for Primary Learners: Randomized Controlled Trial
ABSTRACT
Background:
Endoscopic examination is a popular and routine procedure for the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. Skilled endoscopists are in great demand in clinical practice, but the training process for beginners to become endoscopy specialists is fairly long. Convenience and a self-paced, learner-centered approach make e-learning an excellent instructional prospect.
Objective:
This study developed and applied an e-learning system in gastroscopy teaching and learning and evaluated its effectiveness and user satisfaction.
Methods:
The e-learning software “Gastroscope Roaming System” was developed for primary learners. The system simulates the real structure of the upper gastrointestinal tract to teach the main characteristics of gastroscopy under both normal conditions and conditions of common upper gastrointestinal tract diseases. A randomized controlled trial was conducted. Participants were randomly allocated to an e-learning group or a non-e-learning control group after a pretest. Upon completing the training, participants underwent a posttest and gastroscopy examination. Additionally, the e-learning group completed a satisfaction questionnaire.
Results:
Of the 44 volunteers, 41 (93%) completed the gastroscopy learning and testing. No significant pretest differences were found between the intervention and control groups (mean 50.86, SD 6.12 vs. mean 50.76, SD 6.88; P=.96). After one month of learning, the e-learning group’s posttest scores were higher than those of the control group (mean 83.70, SD 5.99 vs. mean 78.76, SD 7.58; P=.03), with obvious improvement in the gastroscopy examination score (mean 91.05, SD 4.58 vs. mean 84.38, SD 5.19; P<.001). Overall, 85% (17/20) of participants were satisfied with the e-learning system, and 95% (19/20) considered it successful.
Conclusions:
E-learning is an effective educational strategy for primary learners to acquire skills in gastroscopy examination and endoscopic imaging of the gastrointestinal tract. Clinical Trial: ChiCTR-IOR-17013091
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