A computer-based self-directed training module for basic suturing

This paper describes the development and pilot testing of a computer-based self-directed training module designed to teach basic suturing to medical students. The module was developed in a cooperative effort between physicians, audiovisual technicians and computer programmers. A group of 14 first-year medical students were then recruited and trained in wound management and suturing using the self-directed training module. These students were then tested in an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) format and their scores compared with those of a group of 18 fourth-year students trained in the traditional in the traditional manner. In comparing the first-year students with the fourth-year students the mean scores on the OSCE were similar (14.7 vs 15.4). There is no statistical difference between these mean scores and their ranking (Mann-Whitney chi(2) statistic = 0.53; 1 df; p = 0.47). Our pilot study suggests that this training module for basic suturing may be an effective tool for teaching undergraduate medical students.