Short-term knowledge gains and learner satisfaction after a basic radiology course for family medicine residents in a 3-dimensional virtual environment: a multi-cohort pretest–posttest study in Spain

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate a structured basic radiology course for Family Medicine residents delivered in a 3-dimensional (3D) virtual environment (Second Life). We hypothesized that participation would be associated with higher post-course knowledge test scores and high learner satisfaction.Methods: A quasi-experimental multi-cohort pretest–posttest study was conducted across 3 consecutive cohorts of Family Medicine residents in Spain in 2019. Ninety-six participants engaged in a 15-day course combining synchronous and asynchronous activities. Sixty-five participants provided paired pre- and post-intervention knowledge assessments, which were analyzed using paired t-tests. Learner satisfaction was evaluated using a structured questionnaire with Likert-scale items, numerical ratings (0–10), and open-ended responses. Pre- and post-test scores and ratings were compared using paired t-tests, and Mann-Whitney U tests were used for Likert-scale data. Qualitative data from open-ended responses were analyzed using thematic coding.Results: Participants had significantly higher post-course knowledge test scores, increasing from 47.4±11.6 to 58.2±11.9 (mean difference, 10.8; P<0.001; paired-sample Cohen’s d [dz]=0.67). High agreement was observed across most satisfaction items, with median scores ranging from 4 to 5. Content relevance, usefulness for clinical practice, and instructor performance received the highest ratings. Lower scores were observed for peer interaction and platform usability.Conclusion: A structured radiology course delivered in a 3D virtual environment was associated with higher immediate post-course knowledge test scores and high learner satisfaction among Family Medicine residents. The findings support the feasibility of repeated course delivery, although controlled studies are warranted.