Time and learning efficiency in Internet-based learning: a systematic review and meta-analysis
- 14 May 2010
- journal article
- review article
- Published by Springer Nature in Advances in Health Sciences Education
- Vol. 15 (5), 755-770
- https://doi.org/10.1007/s10459-010-9231-x
Abstract
Authors have claimed that Internet-based instruction promotes greater learning efficiency than non-computer methods. Objectives Determine, through a systematic synthesis of evidence in health professions education, how Internet-based instruction compares with non-computer instruction in time spent learning, and what features of Internet-based instruction are associated with improved learning efficiency. Data sources We searched databases including MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, and ERIC from 1990 through November 2008. Study selection and data abstraction We included all studies quantifying learning time for Internet-based instruction for health professionals, compared with other instruction. Reviewers worked independently, in duplicate, to abstract information on interventions, outcomes, and study design. Results We identified 20 eligible studies. Random effects meta-analysis of 8 studies comparing Internet-based with non-Internet instruction (positive numbers indicating Internet longer) revealed pooled effect size (ES) for time −0.10 (p = 0.63). Among comparisons of two Internet-based interventions, providing feedback adds time (ES 0.67, p = 0.003, two studies), and greater interactivity generally takes longer (ES 0.25, p = 0.089, five studies). One study demonstrated that adapting to learner prior knowledge saves time without significantly affecting knowledge scores. Other studies revealed that audio narration, video clips, interactive models, and animations increase learning time but also facilitate higher knowledge and/or satisfaction. Across all studies, time correlated positively with knowledge outcomes (r = 0.53, p = 0.021). Conclusions On average, Internet-based instruction and non-computer instruction require similar time. Instructional strategies to enhance feedback and interactivity typically prolong learning time, but in many cases also enhance learning outcomes. Isolated examples suggest potential for improving efficiency in Internet-based instruction.Keywords
This publication has 57 references indexed in Scilit:
- Instructional Design Variations in Internet-Based Learning for Health Professions Education: A Systematic Review and Meta-AnalysisAcademic Medicine, 2010
- Adapting Web-based Instruction to Residents’ Knowledge Improves Learning EfficiencyJournal of General Internal Medicine, 2008
- Lack of interaction between sensing–intuitive learning styles and problem-first versus information-first instruction: a randomized crossover trialAdvances in Health Sciences Education, 2007
- Computer-Assisted Instruction in Clinical Education: a Roadmap to Increasing CAI ImplementationAdvances in Health Sciences Education, 2006
- Multimedia-Driven Teaching Significantly Improves Students’ Performance When Compared With a Print MediumThe Annals of Thoracic Surgery, 2006
- Measuring inconsistency in meta-analysesBMJ, 2003
- Psychological myths in e-learningMedical Teacher, 2002
- A review of evaluative studies of computer-based learning in nursing educationNurse Education Today, 2001
- Effects of Quantity of Instruction on Time Spent on Learning and AchievementEducational Research and Evaluation, 1995
- Computer-Based Instruction and Health Professions EducationEvaluation & the Health Professions, 1992