Evaluation of a web-based application versus conventional instruction in the undergraduate curriculum of fixed prosthodontics

Aims: The present study aims to investigate the implications of web‐based delivery of identical learning content for time efficiency and students’ performance, as compared to conventional textbook resources. Materials and methods: Two cohorts of third year undergraduate dental students in 2003 (n = 35) and 2006 (n = 32) completed the study. Following a baseline pre‐test, the students were divided into two groups and given 3 weeks for studying identical content using a web‐based application (group A) or a conventional paper manuscript (group B). Post‐test, end of semester examination and a final retention test were taken. Test scores and studying time was registered for both cohorts in 2003 and 2006. Results: Group A and B knowledge gain was highly significant between the average per cent scores from pre‐test, post‐test and end of semester examination in both cohorts in 2003 and 2006 (P