Blended learning in radiology: Is self-determined learning really more effective?

Objective To investigate whether there are differences in learning outcomes after the application of self-determined (intrinsic motivation) or mandatory (extrinsic motivation) use of e-learning units in an undergraduate radiology internship.Methods 96 medical students undergoing a one-week radiology internship were included in this study. Ten electronic cases (e-cases) were created for a blended learning approach. The e-learning environment was accessed on a self-determined (group B; n = 32) or a mandatory basis (group C; n = 32). A group without access to the e-learning environment served as control group (group A; n = 32). Usage parameters of the e-cases were recorded. Results of a pre- and post-course assessment were used to quantitatively analyze learning outcomes.Results In group B 19/32 (59%) students processed at least one e-case, while in group C all students processed at least one e-case. There was a trend towards a higher improvement in knowledge in students exposed to a blended learning approach (group B: 13.7%; group C: 15.4%) than in the control group (group A: 8.5%; p = 0.5356). Group C processed (p = 0.0093) and passed (p = 0.0078) significantly more e-cases, than with group B. There were no significant differences in the mean time per e-case and the total time on e-cases between both groups.Conclusion Extrinsic motivation results in a more extensive use of e-learning units in an undergraduate radiology internship when compared with intrinsic motivation. The choice of the teaching strategy has a bigger influence on learning outcomes than the type of motivation, highlighting the need for qualified medical teachers.