Comparative evaluation of two applications for delivering a multimedia medical course in the French-speaking Virtual Medical University (UMVF).

This paper describes a comparative evaluation of two applications delivering a multimedia course: a conventional web server (WS) and an integrated e-learning platform in the form of a virtual campus (VC). We used a qualitative method for comparing their acceptance of the on-line course provided by the two different interfaces. The two groups were globally satisfied. However, a decrease in satisfaction was noted at the end of the experimentation in the VC group. This may be explained by a more complex graphic user interface of the VC and some constraints which do not exist with the WS. Students from both groups also had limitations about the multimedia environment.

Comparative assessment of two interfaces for delivering a multimedia medical course in the French-speaking Virtual Medical University (UMVF).

The UMVF aims at helping medical students during their normal curriculum via the facilities provided by Internet based techniques. This paper describes a comparative assessment of two interfaces delivering a multimedia course: a conventional web server (WS) and an integrated e-learning platform in the form of a Virtual Campus (VC). Eleven students were arbitrarily divided into two groups. We used a qualitative method for comparing their acceptance of the on line course provided by the two different interfaces. The two groups were globally satisfied. However, a decrease in satisfaction was noted at the end of the experimentation in the VC group. This may be explained by a more complex Graphical User Interface (GUI) of the VC and some constraints which do not exist with the WS. The current e-learning platforms are probably not optimised for working conditions where presential and virtual activities are mixed. We think that a new type of "light" platforms should be developed for these specific working conditions. Students of the two groups also had limitations about the multimedia environment. They may change their opinion if they get more accustomed with the multimedia environment and if their teachers make a more adequate use of the multimedia techniques.