Resident learning and knowledge retention from resident-prepared chest radiology conferences

Rationale and Objectives. The authors assessed resident learning and retention and knowledge from resident-prepared chest radiology conferences. Materials and Methods. Radiology residents presented five chest conferences to their peers during a 5-month interval; the conferences were modeled on a case presentation format. Tests were given 5 minutes before each conference (pretest) and immediately after each conference (posttest). The tests were readministered as a final examination 6 months later, at which time the residents were asked to evaluate the conference format. Results. Conference attendance ranged from six to 11 residents. Mean posttest scores were statistically significantly higher than mean pretest scores (P < .0001). Six-month retention scores were higher than pretest scores (P < .05) but lower than posttest scores (P < .05). On a scale of 1-6, with 1 representing strongly disagree and 6 strongly agree, residents strongly agreed that the conferences provided an excellent learning experience (mean score, 5.27). Conclusion. Resident-prepared conferences are effective for teaching residents chest radiology. Resident testing at 6 months demonstrated retention of knowledge above pretest levels but lower than posttest levels.