• Koenraad G Monsieurs, Catherine Vogels, Leo L Bossaert, Philippe Meert, Andreas Manganas, Manolis Tsiknakis, Erich Leisch, Paul A Calle, and Fabrizio Giorgini.
• Emergency Department, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium. koen.monsieurs@ugent.be
• Resuscitation. 2004 Aug 1;62(2):159-65.

IntroductionElectronic interactive learning environments can enhance the learning experience and may prove beneficial in basic life support (BLS) training. As part of the European Union funded project "JUST-in-time health emergency interventions-training of non-professionals by virtual reality and advanced IT tools", an innovative interactive CD-ROM on BLS and other emergency medicine topics was developed. We hypothesised that individuals without previous BLS training could learn CPR techniques from this CD.MethodsSixty-two students were randomised into a group studying the JUST CD in a computer class room for up to 60 min, and a control group who did not receive any training (serving as a reference). CD users also completed a satisfaction questionnaire immediately after studying the CD. The BLS skills of both groups were assessed in a mock BLS scenario on a training manikin. BLS performance was video recorded and analysed.ResultsAfter studying the CD for a mean period of 42 min, users of the CD had better assessment skills and were more likely to show a positive helping attitude, but chest compression and breathing techniques were ineffective. Most users rated the CD as very good and a positive learning tool.ConclusionIndividuals without prior BLS training showed improved behaviour and assessment skills after exposure to the CD, but motor skill acquisition requires alternative learning strategies.

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