Computer-based training videos can now be accessed from anywhere on the planet
where an internet-enable device is located. Mobile devices make portability almost too easy.
An investigative study done by Dubrowski and Xerioulis (2005) looked at first-year medical
students’ use of self-paced, computer-based training videos. Special suturing and knot tying
techniques were recorded and stored in a media platform delivery system. Students were given
access to these videos and the technology tracked their total time viewed, most frequent
video accessed, and most frequent time spent in a section of a video. Authors were able to
make recommendations for curriculum changes based on what surgical techniques in the media
were viewed the most. This format for video learning was determined successful by students. Basic procedural steps can be effectively studied through the use of online videos. Despite
the fact that the videos were deemed effective, the study did mention in-person instruction
was provided in addition to the video training. In this case, video served as a supplemental
resource that was also used to indicate areas deemed important by students.