This study aimed to assess the current state of knowledge regarding radiation and evaluate the effectiveness of a test-linked illustrated video lecture designed to enhance understanding. Radiation is used in various fields, including medicine, industry, and power generation; however, it poses potential health risks and accident hazards. Consequently, the dissemination and acquisition of accurate knowledge is socially significant. However, in Japan, opportunities to acquire foundational knowledge are limited and systematic education is not prevalent. To supplement this educational shortage, it is necessary to develop teaching materials that are easy for learners to understand and that promote understanding efficiently in a short time.　This study involved 94 first-year students from the Faculty of Pharmacy who viewed a 10 minute video on the basic properties of radiation, its effects on the human body, and its medical applications. Changes in knowledge were quantitatively assessed by comparing the comprehension test scores before and after viewing the video. The initial comprehension test scores (10 questions, each worth 10 points) averaged 42.6±15.4 and 39.3±17.9 points for male and female students, respectively, indicating a low level of comprehension with no significant gender differences. Conversely, in the retest following the video, both male and female students scored 85.6±13.7 and 85.2±18.6 points, respectively, demonstrating a high level of comprehension and a significant increase compared with the initial test (male: P<0.001, female: P<0.001）. These findings suggest that illustrated lectures can serve as an effective tool for enhancing comprehension irrespective of gender.