The Impact of Television: An Evaluation of the Use of Videotapes in Psychiatric Training

Two groups of psychiatric residents participated in an educational evaluation study. Thirty-four residents were given a televised course in neurology and psychotherapy; a "live" teacher instructed 19 other residents in neurology and psychiatry. Both groups were tested to determine the relative effectiveness of the two instructional programs. The television group performed better on information accumulation scales and on the acquisition of interviewing skills test; the control group better assimilated the attitudinal positions of the instructor.