Level of Learning and Satisfaction through Traditional Methods and the Use of Multimedia: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Introduction: Following the growing development of information technology, the traditional methods of teaching cannot meet the teaching demands of today’s societies. The Purpose of this study was to compare the effects of the modern and traditional teaching methods on knowledge and attitude of the dental students. Materials and Methods: This study is a semi experimental one carried out in the academic year, 2012. The participants consisting of two groups of dental students were selected through random sampling. One group was taught through the traditional method and the second group through the multimedia method. Then a written test was given to the two groups about the lesson contents, and the satisfaction level of the groups was determined, using the 0-10 scale. After two months, a test was performed in order to investigate the rate of remembrance. The Manweitny statistic test was used in order to analyze the data. Results: The level of knowledge for the group taught through multimedia method was more significant than that for the group undergoing the traditional method. However, the mean of satisfaction grade and remembrance were found not be significantly different. Conclusion: Regarding the effectiveness of the multimedia method, the use of this method can provide a good opportunity for students to learn better.