Assessing the use of a smartphone app to teach eye screening to opticians

Introduction Torch‐light Eye Screening Test (TEST) is a simple eye screening technique designed for use by opticians to look for common anterior segment eye conditions. The TEACHES‐Learning Electronic Module (TEACHES‐LEM) is an e‐learning platform that was developed to teach opticians to perform TEST. The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of TEACHES‐LEM with face‐to‐face training (F2FT) in the training and assessment of knowledge among opticians. Methods Participants were randomly assigned in this experimental study to receive either the intervention group ((TEACHES‐LEM, n = 60) or the control group (F2FT, n = 57). The conceptual knowledge of TEST was assessed with a 20‐item clinical scenario‐based multiple choice question (MCQ) test before and after teaching (immediately post‐teaching and 1‐month post‐teaching). The MCQ test was developed by three ophthalmologists to give face validity. Results The pre‐teaching test scores (TS), indicating prior knowledge, were comparable in both groups (10.02 ± 2.79 versus 10.40 ± 4.17, p = 0.563, independent t test). The mean immediate post teaching score for TEACHES‐LEM was 13.3 ± 4.01 versus 12.3 ± 3.29 in the F2FT group (p = 0.170, independent t test). The mean post 1‐month teaching score for TEACHES‐LEM and F2FT groups were also comparable, 14.5 ± 4.19 versus 13.4 ± 3.90 respectively (p = 0.295, independent t test), indicating non‐inferiority of TEACHES to F2FT. Conclusion The TEACHES‐LEM e‐learning tool is as effective as F2FT in teaching opticians to perform TEST. It is an alternative to face‐to‐face teaching in delivering knowledge and assessment. The obviation for physical contact will make it a useful teaching tool during the COVID‐19 pandemic period.