Comparative Effectiveness of a Computer and Videotape Simulation in Dietetic Education

A clinical simulation was developed, programmed in computer and videotape modes, and compared for its effect on cognitive and affective learning of dietetic/nutrition students. Three experimental groups of 24, 22, and 21 upper division university students completed a simulated dietary interview on an interactive computer (PLATO) with adjunct questions, or on color videotape interspersed with questions, or in both modes without questions. Cognitive learning and interview-related attitudes, e.g., being supportive and nonjudgmental in interview situations, were assessed with a written pre/posttest. Attitudes toward the simulation were analyzed with a Likert-type scale and a preference question. The effect of time-on-task was also analyzed. Cognitive achievement was significantly greater in the computer group than in the videotape group. Computer and videotape groups did not show pre- to posttest differences in interview-related attitudes, although one computer subgroup had significant attitude score improvement. The simulation received favorable or better ratings from 92 percent of the computer students and from 82 percent of videotape students. Two-thirds of the students who used both simulation modes preferred the computer mode. Time-on-task was positively correlated with cognitive achievement and with favorable attitudes toward the simulation.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Education

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2014

Author dc:creator

• Dow, Ruth Mcnabb

• Education, Home Economics

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

(UMI)AAI8108494

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/65987