Use of an audience response system to augment interactive learning.

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Little data exist about the use of an Audience Response System (ARS) as an interactive educational tool in medical teaching. The goals of our pilot study were to determine whether an ARS can enhance educational experiences of health care providers. METHODS: The learners in the study were mainly physicians, and the educational topic was treating self, family, and friends. RESULTS: The learners reported that the ARS made the presentation more fun, helped them be more attentive, and allowed them to learn more than in traditional lecture formats. CONCLUSIONS: An ARS has potential as a teaching tool in this setting.