An innovative PantoDict program for reporting panoramic radiographs using automatic speech recognition in dental education: a randomized observer-blinded study.

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the effect of an e-learning program including automatic speech recognition on outcomes assessment in interpreting panoramic radiographs at a dental school.

Study Design: For instruction in reporting findings on panoramic radiographs, 36 participants were divided randomly into 3 seminar groups. Group A used the new PantoDict digital e-learning program for training. Group B used both PantoDict and conventional face-to-face classroom instruction. Group C used conventional instruction only. After attending 3 seminars, all students completed an examination on reporting a panoramic radiograph and evaluated the course.

Results: Both groups using PantoDict (groups A and B) had significantly higher examination scores than the conventional group (P ≤ .002). However, students in group C were more likely than those in group A to agree that their knowledge and confidence improved following the seminars. Students in group A would have preferred an instructor for the first seminar. The evaluation confirmed that students were satisfied with the e-module regarding usability and didactics. Most students indicated that they would like to use PantoDict all the time.

Conclusions: The e-learning program with automatic speech recognition is a useful device for completing radiology reports and can be used as a complementary tool in face-to-face teaching.