Introduction: Prompt cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by aid groups during incidents is known as a determining factor of the survival rate. This study compared the effects of CPR teaching with two methods, practical with model and film, on the knowledge and performance of aid groups.

Methods: This experimental study, designed as two groups of before and after, was performed on 72 members of aid groups in Hamedan, Iran. The samples were randomly selected from both organizations and divided into two groups of 36. Before the intervention, knowledge and performance of samples were assessed by knowledge evaluation questionnaire and performance evaluation checklist. The intervention was a theoretical and practical training for group A (practical with mannequin) in groups of six. In group B (film), education was in the form of a video CD with the same content. Finally, after seven days, knowledge and performance of samples were examined. Data were analysed by statistical method and SPSS software.

Results: There was no significant difference in knowledge and performance before and after the training in both groups (P < 0.05); also, there was no significant difference between knowledge and practice of the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions: According to the study, both methods were equally effective. However, teaching by film can have advantages such as being doable in free time, no need for presence in class, being easy to use and cost-effective.