Abstract
Data sources Sources were MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, Embase, ERIC (Educational Resources Information Centre), CINHAL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health), LISA (Library and Information Science Abstracts), Psycinfo (Psychological Information) and IPA (International Pharmaceutical Abstracts).
Study selection Randomised controlled trials (RCT) that compared computer-aided learning (CAL) programmes with any other method of instruction were considered. Only studies within dentistry were included. The quality of studies was assessed using a checklist.
Data extraction and synthesis Both qualitative and quantitative outcomes from studies were recorded, and qualitative synthesis of the results was undertaken because of the diverse nature of the outcomes.
Results Twelve studies were identified (five in endodontics, three in orthodontics and one each in oral anatomy, restorative, geriatric and prosthetic dentistry).
Conclusions For the most part, CAL is either more effective than or equally effective as other methods of education.
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Address for correspondence: Helen A Grad, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, 124 Edward Street, Room 252, Toronto, Ontario, Canada MSG1G8. E-mail: helen.grad@utoronto.ca
Rosenberg H, Grad HA, Matear DW. The effectiveness of computer-aided, self-instructional programs in dental education: a systematic review of the literature. J Dent Educ 2003; 67:524–532
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Walmsley, D. Computer-aided learning programmes in teaching dental students. Evid Based Dent 4, 81 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.ebd.6400219
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.ebd.6400219
