Computer‐assisted learning as an alternative to didactic lectures: a study of teaching the physics of diagnostic imaging

Dale, V.H.M. , Sullivan, M. and Irvine, D.R. (1999) Computer‐assisted learning as an alternative to didactic lectures: a study of teaching the physics of diagnostic imaging. Research in Learning Technology, 7(3), pp. 75-86. (doi: 10.1080/0968776990070308)

Abstract

A computer‐assisted learning (CAL) package entitled Physics of Diagnostic Imaging was developed in 1995 to replace five hours of didactic lectures at the University of Glasgow Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, and has been available as an additional learning resource for students in the other five UK veterinary schools for over three years. The package was reviewed by peer experts and the reaction of the students to its use gauged by post‐task questionnaire administration, informal discussions and observation. To assess the effect of integration into the curriculum, analyses of fourth‐year degree examination results over a six‐year period were carried out. Analyses of students’ examination results for pre‐ and post‐CAL delivery of the diagnostic imaging course showed that performance in the CAL‐based course was significantly higher than in other subjects. This confirmed that the courseware can be used to replace didactic lectures as part of a rich learning environment supported by other resources. Initial student resistance to lecture replacement with CAL occurred, but has lessened as the use of the package has become established in the curriculum.

• Item Type: Articles (Other)
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Sullivan, Professor Martin and Dale, Dr Vicki
• Authors: Dale, V.H.M., Sullivan, M., and Irvine, D.R.
• Subjects: L Education > LB Theory and practice of education; L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education; L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2361 Curriculum
• College/School: University Services > Learning and Teaching Services Division; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine; University Services > Student and Academic Services > Academic Services
• Journal Name: Research in Learning Technology
• Publisher: Co-Action Publishing
• ISSN: 2156-7069
• ISSN (Online): 2156-7077
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 1999 The Authors
• First Published: First published in Research in Learning Technology 7(3):75-86
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons License