Feasibility of incorporating alternative teaching methods into clinical clerkships

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Abstract
Current pressures on medical education mandate a search for more efficient, effective methods of clinical teaching. Most clinical clerkships rely on teaching through patient‐based experience. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of using alternative methods, such as computer‐assisted instruction, videodisc, and videotape, to complement patient‐based experience in outpatient clerkships. Seventeen medical students completed modules on diabetes and hypertension using such alternative methods during clinical rotations. Results of a preintervention‐postintervention evaluation included (a) increased interest among students in a more balanced distribution of clerkship time between patients and alternative teaching methods, (b) significantly increased self‐assessments of knowledge, and (c) significant gains on knowledge test. In‐depth interviews with 13 participants revealed positive attitudes toward the alternative curriculum, particularly its capacity to augment teaching by attending physicians and promote self‐directed learning.

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