Using spaced repetition to teach histopathology significantly improves diagnostic skills: A randomized within-participant evaluation.
Sarah Barhdaoui, Thibault Kervarrec, Pierre Sohier
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of spaced repetition (SR) in enhancing diagnostic skills among 337 trainees and certified pathologists in histopathology. Results showed that participants scored significantly higher on diagnoses reviewed with SR (mean score: 7.3/10 vs. 5.4/10; paired mean difference +1.9 points, p < 0.001) and completed cases faster, indicating SR's potential to improve learning outcomes in this field.
Key findings
- Participants scored significantly higher on diagnoses reviewed with SR (mean score: 7.3/10 vs. 5.4/10).
- The paired mean difference in scores was +1.9 points (p < 0.001).
- Participants completed cases in significantly less time with SR (paired median difference -1.4 min, p = 0.018).
- 90% of participants expressed intent to reuse the SR learning technique.
Why it matters
The study highlights the potential of spaced repetition as an effective educational tool in histopathology, which could enhance diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. This approach may be beneficial for both initial training and ongoing professional development.