The evaluation of an open source online training system for teaching 12 lead electrocardiographic interpretation

IntroductionThe aim of this study is to present and evaluate the integration of a low resource JavaScript based ECG training interface (CrowdLabel) and a standardised curriculum for self-guided tuition in ECG interpretation.MethodsParticipants practiced interpreting ECGs weekly using the CrowdLabel interface to assist with the learning of the traditional didactic taught course material during a 6 week training period. To determine competency students were tested during week 7.ResultsA total of 245 unique ECG cases were submitted by each student. Accuracy scores during the training period ranged from 0–59.5% (median = 33.3%). Conversely accuracy scores during the test ranged from 30 – 70% (median = 37.5%) (p < 0.05). There was no correlation between students who interpreted high numbers of ECGs during the training period and their marks obtained.ConclusionsCrowdLabel is shown to be a readily accessible dedicated learning platform to support ECG interpretation competency