Incorporating computer‐assisted instruction (CAI) into a Ghana, West Africa, medical school curriculum

Use of computer technology as an adjunct to teaching gross anatomy is increasing. Studies suggest that the use of computer‐assisted instruction (CAI), such as interactive programs, is equal to traditional teaching methods, and occasionally more beneficial. However, in developing countries such as Kumasi, Ghana limited research has been conducted to address the use and impact of CAI. Therefore, the goal of our questionnaire study was to identify potential or perceived barriers for accessing CAI material in this population. This was accomplished using a questionnaire to gather information on the type of computer and related equipment used by students, students' network connection, students' ability to download plug‐ins required to run applications, and students' ability and/or knowledge to navigate various browsers. The principal results showed a significant difference in the use of computer equipment and peripherals by students, types and speed of network connections and student opinions regarding the use of CAI when compared to previous studies in the United States. We conclude that the assessment of the technological capabilities and needs of Ghana medical students is important to optimize the design and access of CAI tools. Information gained from this study will be used to guide training and implementation of CAI resources for the medical students in Kumasi, Ghana in the future.