Testing with feedback improves recall of information in informed consent: A proof of concept study

Objective: This study investigates whether applying educational testing approaches to an informed consent video for a medical procedure can lead to greater recall of the information presented.

Methods: Undergraduate students (n=120) were randomly assigned to watch a 20-min video on informed consent under one of three conditions: 1) tested using multiple-choice knowledge questions and provided with feedback on their answers after each 5-min segment; 2) tested with multiple choice knowledge questions but not provided feedback after each segment; or 3) watched the video without knowledge testing.

Results: Participants who were tested and provided feedback had significantly greater information recall compared to those who were tested but not provided feedback and to those not tested. The effect of condition was stronger for moderately difficult questions versus easy questions.

Conclusions: Inserting knowledge tests and providing feedback about the responses at timed intervals in videos can be effective in improving recall of information.

Practical implication: Providing informed consent information through a video not only standardizes the material, but using testing with feedback inserted within the video has the potential to increase recall and retention of this material.