Evidence-based educational algorithm “Anki” for optimization of medical education

Abstract

Anki is an open-sourced educational platform that utilizes a spaced repetition-based algorithm for information retention. This application has become increasingly popular among medical students and residents over recent years. The aim of this review was to describe this novel education technique, provide reasons for its adoption, and summarize the available literature regarding the efficacy of this method. With the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the medical education paradigm has undergone dynamic shifts. With self-learning independent of lectures on the rise prior to the pandemic, COVID-19 served as a catalyst to increase Anki popularity. The all-encompassing, free of charge, and open-sourced structure of Anki was an ideal fit during times of isolated study. This review will allow current residents and medical students to recognize advantages of this evidence-proven study techniques to increase learning efficacy. A systemic review of papers across all medical journals available on PubMed was conducted to identify studies published without time constraints. The search was for (Anki) and (spaced repetition residency). Available outcome data was summarized and discussed for residents and medical students independently. We found that Anki use has steadily increased among both medical students and residents. The application was regarded highly by users when surveyed. Many studies showed a statistically significant increase in exam performance associated with Anki use and high levels of satisfaction among residents and medical students. As burnout and time constrictions threaten educational workflow, Anki may serve as a powerful tool to improve the quality of learning. Further data needs to be collected and analyzed in residency specialties where Anki use may already exist but be underreported. Additionally, research is warranted to provide more high-quality evidence of Anki’s efficacy among medical students. Further research can be used to promote adoption of this technique among medical students and pre-meds early in their careers.