Evaluation of the effectiveness of GASMAN anesthesia simulation software combined with case-based learning versus traditional lecture-based learning in inhalation anesthesia education

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of integrating GASMAN anesthesia simulation software with case-based learning (IGC) compared to traditional lecture-based learning (LBL) in teaching inhalation anesthesia to undergraduate anesthesiology students.

Methods: Fourth-year students from two academic years (2022, n = 110; 2023, n = 131) enrolled in a five-year anesthesiology program were assigned to either traditional lecture-based learning (LBL) or IGC groups. The LBL group received traditional lectures using PowerPoint slides, while the IGC group engaged with GASMAN anesthesia simulation software (a tool designed for anesthesia simulation and gas monitoring) combined with case-based learning. The cases used in the IGC group were structured around realistic clinical scenarios, simulating real-world challenges in inhalation anesthesia. These scenarios were integrated with the GASMAN software to provide interactive simulations, enhancing students' understanding of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Teaching effectiveness was evaluated through expert assessments and student feedback, with learning outcomes compared via post-course assessments.

Results: The IGC group scored significantly higher in student evaluations in areas such as comprehending and mastering theoretical knowledge, resolving clinical challenges, nurturing clinical reasoning, increasing learning interest, enhancing learning efficiency, consolidating memory, improving analytical skills, and refining application proficiency (adjusted P < 0.001), however, there were no significant differences between the two groups in the improvement of practical skills. Post-course test scores were also higher in the IGC group for both total post-course test and subjective questions scores (adjusted P < 0.001), though no difference was found for objective question scores. After applying false discovery rate (FDR) correction, expert evaluation scores showed no significant differences between the two groups.

Conclusion: The integration of GASMAN software with case-based learning significantly enhances the quality of inhalation anesthesia education by improving student engagement, critical thinking, and conceptual understanding. This approach demonstrates promise for advancing clinical education, although further research is needed to evaluate its long-term impact.