International Journal of Medical and Health Research

Authors
Dr. Divya G Krishnan, Dr. Shaikh Ubedulla, Dr. Anukesh Vasu Keloth

Abstract
In our study, we evaluated the effectiveness of computer assisted learning (CAL) with that of a practical session based on graphs and card based discussion, on the enhancement as well as retention of knowledge among undergraduate students of Pharmacology. Group 1 was taught the concept relating to the effects of autonomic drugs on blood pressure by a practical session based on graphs and charts while Group 2 was taught the same using the CAL program. Knowledge gain and retention by the two sessions were assessed by comparing the mean scores attained by the groups during the immediate post-test and delayed post-test respectively. Both groups had significantly better scores in the immediate post- test when compared to their respective pre-test scores. However, there was no significant difference between the groups in the immediate post-test scores (29.25vs28.33, p>0.05) implying that both sessions were equally effective in enhancing knowledge. In the delayed post-test the mean score of Group 2 was significantly better than Group 1(28.70vs22.15, p<0.05) implying that CAL has more effect on the knowledge retention compared to practical class based on graphs and charts. It was concluded that CAL can be an effective teaching aid and should be seen as complimentary to other teaching methods for medical students.