Evaluation of the Basic Life Support CD-ROM: Its effectiveness as learning tool and user experiences

This article presents the evaluation of a basic life support (BLS) CD-ROM, developed as part of the Interactive Teaching and Learning (INTaL) staff development project. Student nurses’ preand post-test percentage results were compared using the non-parametric Wilcoxon test. Competency in delivering BLS skills was measured at one of the sites. A Pearson’s co-efficient test was applied to measure any correlation between knowledge attainment and skill performance. Focus groups facilitated an exploration of the students’ experiences and feelings of using interactive multi-media technology for learning. Lecturers’ views were sought through individual interviews. Learning had occurred across all groups, though this was not uniform. There was no correlation between knowledge of BLS and skill attainment measured through expired air respiration and external chest compression scores, though those students performing BLS for the second time achieved better results than those undertaking practice and testing for the first time. Interpretations of the students’ and lecturers’ experiences of using the resource identified four key themes: student centred resource, context of learning, skill development and technological support.