Comparison of Nurse Anesthesia Student 12 Lead EKG Knowledge, Interpretation Skill, Satisfaction and Attitude: Traditional Instruction vs. Asynchronous Online Video Lecture

Online education has become increasingly popular for providing learning experiences in all disciplines. Despite continued evidence that online learning is at least equivalent to traditional methods, some educators are reluctant to embrace online educational offerings. This study evaluated whether an online class provided within an otherwise traditional face-to-face (F2F) nurse anesthesia curriculum would produce comparable learning outcomes and be accepted by students as an alternative learning format.

A F2F lecture format for teaching 12 lead EKG interpretation was compared with similar course materials provided in an asynchronous, self-paced, online narrated video format. A pretest/posttest design was used to evaluate concept knowledge change and an analytical skills examination (ASE) determined student ability to accurately interpret EKG readings. The variables of satisfaction, attitude toward online learning, and student time were also evaluated.

Knowledge and analytical skill acquisition were comparable in both groups and satisfaction was equally good with both delivery methods. The student’s attitudes concerning online instruction improved after exposure to the online method of teaching.