Comparison of Computer‐Assisted Instruction and Seminar Instruction to Acquire Psychomotor and Cognitive Knowledge of Epistaxis Management

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Abstract
Epistaxis is a common problem faced by primary care physicians. Typically, first‐hand experience with this problem is not obtained in medical school. A computer learning module was developed to address practical management of epistaxis. It was evaluated by use of third‐year clerks and compared with an interactive seminar based on the same material. Fifty‐eight students doing their required otolaryngology rotations were randomly separated into 3 groups: (1) doing a preinstruction test, (2) using the computer module, and (3) participating in a small‐group seminar. All participants were tested with a short written test and a practical test that involved performing anterior nasal pack placement in a model patient. Percentage scores for the 2 groups were compared by use of t tests, and there was no significant difference between the written, practical, or combined scores at a level where P = 0.05. This study shows that basic patient management and a simple procedure can be taught as effectively with a computer module as with a small‐group interactive seminar.