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Randomized Controlled Trial
. 2022 Apr 18;22(1):290.
doi: 10.1186/s12909-022-03353-3.

Face-to-face versus distance learning of basic suturing skills in novice learners: a quantitative prospective randomized trial

Ahmad Zaghal  1 , Charles Marley  2 , Salim Rahhal  3 , Joelle Hassanieh  3 , Rami Saadeh  3 , Arwa El-Rifai  3 , Taha Qaraqe  3 , Martine ElBejjani  4 , Rola Jaafar  3 , Jamal J Hoballah  3
Affiliations
Randomized Controlled Trial

Face-to-face versus distance learning of basic suturing skills in novice learners: a quantitative prospective randomized trial

Ahmad Zaghal et al. BMC Med Educ. .

Abstract

Background and aim: Traditionally, practical skills are taught on face-to-face (F-F) basis. COVID-19 pandemic brought distance learning (DL) to the spotlight because of the social distancing mandates. We sought to determine the acceptability and effectiveness of DL of basic suturing in novice learners.

Methods: A prospective randomized controlled trial involving 118 students was conducted. Participants were randomized into two groups for learning simple interrupted suturing: F-F and DL-groups. Evaluation was conducted by two assessors using a performance checklist and a global rating tool. Agreement between the assessors was calculated, and performance scores of the participants were compared. Participants' satisfaction was assessed via a questionnaire.

Results: Fifty-nine students were randomized to the F-F group and 59 to the DL-group. Satisfactory agreement between the assessors was demonstrated. All participants were successful in placing three interrupted sutures, with no significant difference in the performance between the groups. 25(44.6%) of the respondents in the DL-group provided negative comments related to the difficulties of remotely learning visuospatial concepts, 16(28.5%) preferred the F-F approach.

Conclusion: DL of basic suturing is as effective as the F-F approach in novice learners. It is acceptable by the students despite the challenges related to the remote learning of practical skills.

Keywords: Distance learning; Face-to-face learning; Medical education; Pandemic; Suturing skills.

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Conflict of interest statement

All authors have no financial or intellectual competing interests to disclose.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Silicon suturing pad and surgical instruments used in both groups
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Performance checklist: adopted from [68]
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Global rating scoring sheet (OSAT): adopted from [1]
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Self-administered questionnaire
Fig. 5
Fig. 5
Face-to-face versus distance learning: participants’ perspectives on the usefulness of the sessions
Fig. 6
Fig. 6
Face-to-face versus distance learning: participants’ perspectives on the relevance of the sessions
Fig. 7
Fig. 7
Face-to-face versus distance learning: participants’ confidence
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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