The benefits and limitations of reference function on PDA use in medical education: A case study

This study was undertaken to identify the benefits and limitations of the use of reference function on PDA in medical education at the Graduate School of Medicine (GSM), the University of Wollongong (UOW). Method: The mixed method was applied using semi-structured interview and web-based survey. The in-depth interviews were designed and conducted with medical faculty, clinicians and medical education technology specialists. The web-based survey was conducted with the international participants from medical education working group. Results: Four major benefits and three limitations of reference function of PDA used in medical education were noted. Conclusion: Even though there are some limitations of reference function on PDA use in medical education, introducing the use of such function not only provides beneficial for students in studying medicine while offsite but also in classroom environment.