Massed Training versus Interval Training for Computer-Based Suturing Skill Acquisition

Virtual reality simulators have made their mark in many medical applications and training. This paper presents a study comparing the effects of massed practice versus interval practice when learning on a virtual reality medical simulator, and to identify a suitable training time for optimum performance in the suturing skill acquisition. A total of 12 subjects, comprising university students, were selected and divided into 3 groups where each group was assigned a different type of training methods. The results showed that the group which underwent massed practice achieved better results in most parameters measured compared to the other two groups which underwent interval practice of one hour and one day, respectively. Assessment parameters to compare the various training strategies included needle insertion and exit angle, needle grasping angle and grasping position and lastly task completion time.