The Quality of Books, Questions and Teaching Method of Self-Learning in Continuing Medical Education: The Viewpoints of Self-learning Program's Participants in Isfahan University of Medical Sciences

Introduction: Self-learning is an appropriate method for continuing medical education programs and has been used in many countries. In order to evaluate new method of self-learning in CME (Continuing Medical Education) programs, this study was conducted to determine the viewpoints of CME participants about the quality of books, questions, and teaching method of self-learning in Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Methods: In a descriptive cross-sectional study, 3712 physicians among the ones participating in CME programs of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2004-2005, were selected through census sampling. The data collection tool was a questionnaire containing demographic questions and 39 items asking about self-learning method, quality of the books and questions which was distributed along with the book at the time of registration for self-learning. The data was analyzed by SPSS software using frequency distribution, mean, standard deviation, t-test, ANOVA, and linear regression. Results: The mean and standard deviation of the participants' viewpoints toward self-learning teaching method, quality of books, and quality of questions were 3.96±0.39, 3.80±0.35 and 3.74±0.56 out of 5, respectively. The mean scores achieved by older participants were higher significantly. Conclusion: The results demonstrated the good quality of self-learning method, the provided books, and the designed questions. The physicians had a positive attitude toward this method. This teaching method is recommended to be used in other universities.