Event Title

Use of traditional and computerized practical exams in neuroanatomy

Location

HPD South Atrium

Format

Poster

Start Date

16-1-2010 11:30 AM

End Date

16-1-2010 12:30 PM

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: In a previous study, we discovered students would not be opposed to a PowerPoint practical using photos of lab specimen (HPERS 2008). The midterm practical exam utilized PowerPoint. However, the final practical was a traditional exam using tagged specimen.

PURPOSE: To evaluate student perceptions of different practical exam formats.

METHODOLOGY: Optometry (N=104), Physical (N=43) and Occupational (N=29) Therapy students were given a multiple choice survey.

RESULTS: Almost all of the students found the practical exams enjoyable (45%) or helpful (50%). Many students felt this traditional practical was much better than (46%) traditional practical exams they had taken previously. Most students indicated they would request this method in the future (81%). Almost the entire class said specimens were clear (94%). However, only 67% of the students preferred the traditional tagged practical over the PowerPoint method. Almost unanimously (92%), the class preferred this multiple choice practical exam over the typical fill-in-the blank lab practical exams.

CONCLUSIONS: Although students were very pleased with the PowerPoint practical, they preferred the traditional exam. However student perceptions of this exam may be affected by the use of a multiple choice format. Regardless, it is clear the combination of multiple choice and tagged neuro-anatomical structures is the preferred testing method. It allows for word recognition without anxiety over spelling, while validating time spent studying in lab.

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COinS
 
Jan 16th, 11:30 AM Jan 16th, 12:30 PM

Use of traditional and computerized practical exams in neuroanatomy

HPD South Atrium

INTRODUCTION: In a previous study, we discovered students would not be opposed to a PowerPoint practical using photos of lab specimen (HPERS 2008). The midterm practical exam utilized PowerPoint. However, the final practical was a traditional exam using tagged specimen.

PURPOSE: To evaluate student perceptions of different practical exam formats.

METHODOLOGY: Optometry (N=104), Physical (N=43) and Occupational (N=29) Therapy students were given a multiple choice survey.

RESULTS: Almost all of the students found the practical exams enjoyable (45%) or helpful (50%). Many students felt this traditional practical was much better than (46%) traditional practical exams they had taken previously. Most students indicated they would request this method in the future (81%). Almost the entire class said specimens were clear (94%). However, only 67% of the students preferred the traditional tagged practical over the PowerPoint method. Almost unanimously (92%), the class preferred this multiple choice practical exam over the typical fill-in-the blank lab practical exams.

CONCLUSIONS: Although students were very pleased with the PowerPoint practical, they preferred the traditional exam. However student perceptions of this exam may be affected by the use of a multiple choice format. Regardless, it is clear the combination of multiple choice and tagged neuro-anatomical structures is the preferred testing method. It allows for word recognition without anxiety over spelling, while validating time spent studying in lab.