A needs assessment for mobile technology use in medical education

This study investigated how medical students perceived mobile technology as a component of their learning experience and identified barriers to the use of mobile technology in education.

Abstract

Objectives: This study investigated how medical students perceived mobile technology as a component of their learning experience and identified barriers to the use of mobile technology in education.Methods: An anonymous survey developed by EDUCAUSE was distributed to 1000 first year medical students (M1s) at two separate medical schools during three consecutive academic years, 2010 to 2013.The 25-item questionnaire assessed student use of mobile devices, student interest in mobile technologies as they apply to education, and technology issues related to implementing mobile application in education. Results:The majority of participating M1s (n=520) indicated that they own a smartphone or a similar mobile device.More than half of M1s reported using their devices for education, primarily to download educational course materials, listen to podcasts/lectures, and access medical resource applications.Two student-identified technology issues concerning the use of mobile technology in education were ensuring better implementation of technology and faster data transmission (60%).Review of qualitative data from written responses to open-ended questions highlighted three common themes: (1) the current use of mobile technology in the clinics and other institutions, (2) common technology ownership and comfort of use, and (3) efficiency and accessibility to learning materials.Conclusions: While the needs assessment revealed student acceptance of mobile technology in education, student responses highlighted the need for a supportive academic and technological infrastructure.