Jennifer Trinh MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Benjamin Boun-Ming Chou MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Mahesh Ramu Patel MD, Abstract Co-Author: Stockholder, Novartis AG

Young S. Kang MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Peter Phan MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Rajul Parimal Pandit MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

An audience response system (ARS) is a useful tool to encourage active participation during traditional didactic lectures and increases retention. Given the new radiology board exam structure, curriculum changes that prepare residents for taking computer-based multiple choice exams are necessary, and incorporating ARS in conferences has potential towards that goal. Most ARS devices are costly individual handheld keypads, which require maintenance and storage. We investigated the use of a readily available web-based ARS to aid in radiology residency education.

A web-based software was used to obtain real-time responses to quizzes in radiology conferences. Residents used personal electronic devices (e.g. smartphone, netbook, or laptop) to log onto the polling website. Responses were displayed interactively and graphically in a web browser. A repository of questions was created. After a 2-month period, a survey was sent to residents and faculty.

11 ARS sessions were conducted. 14 out of 18 residents responded to the survey (78%). 10 of 14 residents (71%) participated in the ARS. 8 of 10 (80%) residents found it easy to log on and 9 (90%) found it easy to select responses. 9 of 10 (90%) residents reported increased attention and participation during conference. 8 of 10 (80%) found it useful to see their colleagues’ answers displayed. 9 of 10 (90%) preferred to keep answers anonymous. Reasons for non-participation in the ARS included slow or no internet connection and lack of interest. 3 out of 4 non-participating residents felt ARS increased their attention. Among faculty, 11 out of 20 (55%) responded to the survey. Of the 5 faculty who used ARS during resident conferences, 4 (80%) found it easy to upload questions and navigate through the website. 5 out of 5 (100%) faculty were likely to use ARS during future conferences for residents. 14 of 14 residents (100%) and 10 of 11 faculty members (91%) felt the use of an ARS was a worthwhile experience.

A web-based ARS’ ease of use and low cost make it a promising tool for improving learning experience in radiology residency by increasing attention and active participation. Additionally, creation of a repository of questions serves as a valuable study aid for question based board examinations.

A readily available web-based ARS may be an effective tool to prepare residents for the new radiology board exam structure.

Trinh, J, Chou, B, Patel, M, Kang, Y, Phan, P, Pandit, R, Assessment of a Readily Available Web-based Audience Response System in Didactic Radiology Conferences: Does It Promote a Better Learning Experience?.  Radiological Society of North America 2012 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 25 - November 30, 2012 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2012/12043579.html