Use of interactive instructional tools in virtual 3D planning

OBJECTIVES The aim of this study is to analyze the effectiveness of screencast training videos for users from different professional backgrounds on the basis of the quality and quantity of virtual 3D implant planning as evaluated using assessment software. METHODS Participants in the study were dental students (n = 21), dental technicians (n = 16), or practicing dentists (n = 16) with no knowledge of the implant planning software CoDiagnostiX or any experience in virtual implant planning. They were randomly divided into 2 groups: The participants of the control group were presented training videos on CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) and implant planning, additional to the traditional software manual. The participants of the experimental group received, additionally, a training video on the planning software, produced in the form of a screencast. Then 3 implant planning procedures were performed by all participants. The quality of implant planning was assessed using the Treatment Evaluation Tool software, and time for planning was measured. RESULTS Paired sample tests showed significantly shorter planning times for the experimental groups consisting of dentists and students (P < 0.001). A comparison of the results of the individual groups reveals that students and dental technicians who had not received prior screencast training were significantly less precise in their planning (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION This study suggests a promising outcome for the future use of screencasts in the acquisition of software skills for dental software. There is a need for tools for objective self-assessment of effectiveness in software training.