The Effectiveness of Computer-Assisted Instruction in Teaching Biomechanics of the Temporomandibular Joint

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) to teach the anatomy, biomechanics, and pathomechanics of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Sixty-six first- and second-year physical therapist students at Southwest Texas State University participated. None of the subjects had received instruction on the TMJ prior to this study. A two-group pretest-posttest experimental design was used. Each group consisted of 18 first year students and 15 second-year students. The control group was taught the TMJ information by traditional lecture format using still pictures via overhead transparencies for visual illustration. The experimental group was taught the TMJ information using traditional lecture format and CAI with dynamic graphics capabilities. Two faculty members presented the same lecture to both groups, with visual representation of the material being the only variation. Each student completed a pretest consisting of 25 multiple-choice questions pertaining to TMJ anatomy, biomechanics, and dysfunction. Immediately following instruction, each student completed a posttest, identical to the pretest except for random ordering of the questions. A univariate analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), with pretest scores as the covariate and posttest scores as the dependent variable, was performed for the student groups. Posttest scores were not significantly different between students taught by lecture and those taught by lecture using CAI, regardless of level of education. However, posttest scores were significantly different between first- and second-year students, regardless of method of instruction. Findings implied that second year students were better prepared to understand the information being taught. The results of this study showed the use of the traditional lecture method and lecture supported with CAI to be equally effective in teaching information related to the TMJ.