Supplementary file 1_Online adaptive E-tutorials for development of critical appraisal skills.docx

As scaffolding can assist in critical appraisal development, we aimed to develop and evaluate 2 adaptive e-tutorials for critical appraisal development of neuropharmacology research articles as part of the scaffolding process. We developed adaptive e-tutorials allowing personalised feedback and remediation.

Results of an end-of-tutorial survey, and comparisons of institutional Unit of Study Survey ratings and exam results in the 2 years before, and during, the intervention were analysed. Over 4 years, 150 students participated. In the cohorts that did not complete the e-tutorial, there were significant differences in exam marks between students of different academic backgrounds (non-science < science < medicine backgrounds; p < 0.05), while no significant differences between groups were seen in students that completed the e-tutorial, and these marks were statistically equivalent.