Clinical case-based multimedia tutorials as a solution to some problems facing medical education.

Medical education faces many challenges as curricula become crowded and teacher numbers fall. In addition, there are moves to reduce factual overload and to concentrate more on pathophysiological principles illustrated by relevant clinical cases. We describe one means of addressing these problems, using computer-aided learning programs which are based on clinical cases, are interactive and which incorporate multimedia elements. These CD-ROM programs include student assessments, a resource of background material and support self-managed and distance learning.