Preprint / Version 1

A novel approach to improving colonoscopy learning efficiency through a colonoscope roaming system: randomized controlled trial

Authors

  • Dandan Ning Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
  • Huiyong Geng Animation Faculty, Harbin University of Science and Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
  • Jingming Guan Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
  • Sijia Zhang Education Office, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
  • Shuang Wang Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
  • Shuang Li Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
  • Shizhu Jin Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China

Keywords:

E-learning, Colonoscopy, Colonoscopist

Abstract

Colonoscopy is indispensable in the diagnosis and treatment of lower digestive tract (LDT) diseases. Skilled colonoscopists are in great demand, but it takes considerable time for beginners to become experts. In addition, patients may refuse to permit primary learners to practise colonoscopy on them. Thus, improving the instructional programmes and models for primary learners is a key issue in endoscopy training. Convenience and a self-paced, learner-centred approach make e-learning an excellent instructional prospect. Therefore, we created the Colonoscope Roaming System (CRS) to assist in colonoscopy teaching procedures. We aimed to develop the e-learning software, test it with beginner colonoscopists and evaluate its effectiveness via subjective and objective methods. Methods Through a randomized controlled trial, participants were randomly allocated to an e-learning group (EG) or a control group (CG) after a pretest evaluation. The CG learned through the traditional colonoscopy teaching mode, while the EG used CRS in addition to the traditional teaching mode. Subsequent to the training, the participants completed a posttest and colonoscopy examination. The EG also completed a satisfaction questionnaire. Results Of the 84 participants, 81 (96%) finished the colonoscopy learning and evaluation modules of the CRS. No conspicuous differences in the pretest scores were found between the EG and CG (p > 0.05). Two months later, the posttest scores for the EG were higher than those of the CG (p < 0.001), and the EG had better performance on the colonoscopy examination (p < 0.01). Overall, 86.25% of questions raised in Q1-Q20 were satisfied with the CRS and considered it successful. Conclusions The use of CRS may be an effective approach to educate beginner colonoscopists to attain skills. Keywords: E-learning, Colonoscopy, Colonoscopist

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