Efficiency of remote videoconference-assisted ultrasound education: comparison with standard classroom training.
BMC Medical Education · 2025-12-30 · Observational study
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated innovative approaches to medical education. This proposed a particular challenge for the teaching of practical skills, such as ultrasound (US) training. METHODS: This study compared the effectiveness of traditional classroom-based US training with that of remote training using teleguided US (Tele-US) among students in the Prehospital Critical Care (PHCC) program at the University of Stavanger, Norway. A total of 44 students were divided into two groups: one received standard classroom training, and the other received remote training because of pandemic restrictions. Both groups underwent a comprehensive one-day US course, including theoretical lectures and hands-on training sessions. Pre-course and post-course tests were used to assess theoretical knowledge, image and video interpretation skills, practical scanning techniques, and clinical decision-making. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in educational outcomes between the tele-US and classroom groups across all areas of evaluation. CONCLUSIONS: Tele-US appears to be a viable alternative to traditional classroom-based US education, especially in contexts requiring physical distancing or in geographically remote settings. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.
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Tags
COVID-19 pandemic · Point-of-care ultrasound · Rural & remote · Students · Telemedicine
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