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Multi-institutional development and utilization of a computer-assisted learning program for the pediatrics clerkship:
Leslie H Fall1, Norman B Berman, Sherilyn Smith
1Department of Pediatrics, DHMC, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA. Leslie.H.Fall@Hitchcock.org
Summary
Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) in medical education, specifically the CLIPP project, offers consistent, quality pediatric training via internet-based patient simulations. This multi-institutional approach proved feasible and cost-effective for broad educational use.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Digital Learning
- Pediatric Training
Background:
- Traditional medical education faces challenges in providing consistent training across diverse sites.
- Need for standardized, high-quality educational materials in pediatrics clerkships.
- Development of innovative teaching methods to enhance learning outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a comprehensive, multi-institutional computer-assisted instruction (CAI) program for pediatric clerkships.
- To create interactive, internet-based patient simulations aligned with the North American core curriculum.
- To establish a feasible and effective model for CAI development by medical educators.
Main Methods:
- Multi-institutional collaboration involving 30 institutions and pediatric clerkship directors.
- Iterative development process including peer review and pilot-testing of 31 patient case simulations.
- Utilized an internet-based platform for interactive learning and widespread accessibility.
Main Results:
- The Computer-assisted Learning in Pediatrics Project (CLIPP) successfully developed a comprehensive curriculum.
- Currently adopted by 50 medical schools, with over 8,000 students completing 98,000+ case sessions.
- Cost-effective development at approximately $70 per student user or $6 per case session.
Conclusions:
- Multi-institutional development and implementation of peer-reviewed CAI programs by medical educators is feasible.
- CLIPP serves as a successful model for creating scalable and effective digital learning tools in medical education.
- Despite initial costs, CAI offers significant long-term value and efficiency in medical training.
