Conclusions: The internet offers an opportunity to provide easily-expandable, open access re-sources for ECG pedagogy which may be used to complement traditional methods of instruction.

Abstract

This report presents the results of a pilot project using wireless PDAs as teaching tools in an undergraduate medical curriculum. This technology was used to foster a transition from a passive to an interactive learning environment in the classroom and provided a solution for the implementa-tion of computer-based exams for a large class. Wayne State Medical School recently provided model e570 Toshiba PocketPCs? (personal digital assistants or PDAs), network interface cards, and application software developed by CampusMobility? to 20 sophomore medical students. The pilot group of preclinical students used the PDAs to access web-based course content, for communication, scheduling, to participate in interactive teaching sessions, and to complete course evaluations. An-other part of this pilot has been to utilize the PDAs for computer-based exams in a wireless envi-ronment. Server authentication that restricted access during the exams and a proctoring console to monitor and record the PDA screens will be described in this report. Results of a student satisfaction survey will be presented.