A Comparative study of Two Methods of Holding  Research Seminar Course in the Master Program of Medical Records Education

One of the important elements in education is monitoring and evaluation of the courses to ensure that their contents are based on the real present and future needs of students. This study aimed to compare Old and New Methods of holding «Research Seminar» in the master program of medical records education. The results can determine the type of corrective actions required. The population of this applied/educational study included students studying in “Medical Records Education” in both the first and the third periods of the Faculty of Medical Management and Information Sciences in Isfahan during 2009-2010. The data were gathered by means of forms and tables (the validity of which was approved by seeking the related expert opinions) as well as through brain storming in several sessions during six months of intervention. Data analysis was done based on ranking of content and teaching methods (before and after the intervention) and using the Expert Choice software and Analytical Hierarchy Process technique. According to the findings the New Method ranked higher compared with the Old Method with respect to both knowledge production and application for the students. Training should be changed according to learner needs. As in today''s living conditions، community needs are constantly changing; it is recommended that universities and other educational centers regularly improve the content of their teaching courses.