CME Program Triples Learner Recall With Interactive Education

Recent study published in The American Journal of Managed Care successfully demonstrates the effectiveness of audience response systems for interactive education, using both live meetings and online course.

In Brief:

Recently, a continuing medical education program demonstrated that HCP knowledge of learning content increased threefold (from 22% to 78%) when using interactive methods
Prior to participation, just 22% of oncology healthcare providers in attendance understood the basic aspects of program content
CME activity sessions were interactive and digital in nature, conducting live polling and surveying both in live meetings and an online course

The report published in The American Journal of Managed Care demonstrates the significant impact that live polling and surveying can have on HCP learning gaps for education sessions, held both online and in live meetings. The study addressed key knowledge retention concerns that have prevailed throughout the industry:

Are online education courses as effective as live meetings?

Yes, the difference between live meeting and webcourse attendee understanding was nominal in nature (68% and 66% respectively).

Are audience response systems effective in measuring attendee understanding?

Yes, to measure the impact of education program sessions multiple-choice questions should be posed twice, pre- and post- session. Conducting a baseline poll is critical to demonstrating changes in understanding due to exposure. Opening and closing poll questions should match exactly, from answer choice order to text display.

Should polling results be displayed in real time?

No, live polling results should be revealed only after everyone has had a chance to vote. This is critical to protecting results from unintended bias.

Can active recall be measured with audience response systems?

Yes, audience response systems with mobile-web capabilities can measure the long-term memory, or active recall, of HCPs in attendance. By delivering an automated follow-up survey six to eight weeks post meeting, HCP knowledge retention and in-practice decision-making is measured. This survey should contain poll questions posed during the meetings and one or two additional behavioral questions.