Kramer T, Polan H. Uses & Advantages of Interactive Video in Medical Training. Journal of Medical Education,1988 Aug; 63(8):643-644

PMID: 3294414

Abstract

Summary: Interactive video is the merger of a computer and any kind of videotape or videodisc player, although videodiscs are used almost exclu¬sively today. A computer is programmed to play different sections of a videodisc or text depending on the viewer's responses to ques¬tions. Various factors may have slowed its use in medical education. First, most medical educators no longer consider videotaping exotic, but interactive video involves both computer and videodisc technology and may repel faculty members who are intimidated by either. Second is the issue of teaching with ma¬chines. Medical educators impart skills needed in human interactions, and computerized in¬struction may seem antithetical to this process. Although this sentiment is understandable, it misses the potential strength of interactive video, which responds to the student in differ¬ent ways, for different problems, with a large number of possible combinations. The format it uses to respond can be as personal as its authors wish. Third is the issue of cost. As with other new electronic technologies, the cost at the time of introduction is high but will undoubtedly fall as more people buy and use the systems. Fourth and perhaps most impor¬tant is the issue of teaching effectiveness. Do medical students learn as much from interac¬tive video systems as they do from an equal amount of time spent with traditional learning methods?