LectureKeepr: A novel approach to studying in the adaptive curriculum

Abstract

As medical students search for ways to squeeze more hours of learning into their day, many have turned to technology for quick and efficient ways to study. Most commonly this includes based apps for purchase that involve visual tasks, mental review and repetition. Tasks involve flashcard creation, answering multiple choice questions (MCQs) and schedule planning. They typically require students to visually interact with a computer or smartphone screen. Alternatively, auditory apps may not only offer the benefit of enhanced learning through review and repetition, but also address convenience, portability, and metacognitive development without physical and temporal requirements of visual presentation. Auditory learning is eyes and “hands-free” allowing the learner to contiguously engage in other activities such as physical exercise, traveling, eating, etc. In this randomized, case-comparison study, half of the students were exposed to audio lecture content before class using a mobile application called LectureKeepr (LK) and half were exposed to lecture content before class via written material prepared by the professor. Pre- and post-MCQ quizzes were used to measure differences between groups in knowledge improvement. In addition, student perceptions of the auditory learning experience were assessed by an on-line survey. ANOVA with repeated measures revealed that students in the LK intervention group performed better on the postquiz than the students in the written materials group.

Disclosure statement

Aaron Brown and Emeka Ajufo report direct ownership of the mobile application LectureKeepr. All other authors report no conflicts of interest relevant to this article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Aaron Brown

Aaron Brown, BS, is a medical student and former President of the Honor Society and Chairman of Student Judiciary Committee at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, Saint Maarten, currently in clinical clerkships. Co-Founder of LectureKeepr.

Emeka Ajufo

Emeka Ajufo, BS, MBB, is a medical student and former Class Representative at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, Saint Maarten, currently in clinical clerkships. Co-Founder of LectureKeepr.

Cecil Cone

Cecil Cone, MD, is Professor of Pathology at the American University of the Caribbean. Dr. Cone also currently teaches USMLE Step 1 and COMLEX Level 1 board review for Kaplan Medical where teaches at numerous US programs and several programs abroad. Dr. Cone has earned many awards for his engaging and extraordinary style of teaching.

Mark Quirk

Mark Quirk, EdD, is Senior Associate Dean for Medical Education, American University of the Caribbean, School of Medicine, Saint Maarten where he provides vision and oversight for all forms of curriculum and faculty development, including determining appropriate support, resources and programing. Dr. Quirk has published widely on doctor-patient communication and teaching and learning in medicine.