Student-selected components: bringing more ENT into the undergraduate curriculum

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Otolaryngology Training

Background:

• Limited exposure to otolaryngology (ENT) in UK undergraduate medical curricula.
• Potential challenges in recruiting graduates to higher ENT surgical training.
• Need for improved ENT knowledge among primary care practitioners.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the concept of student-selected components (SSCs) in medical education.
• To highlight the suitability of ENT for SSC attachments.
• To provide a framework for implementing ENT SSCs.

Main Methods:

• Discussion of the 'student-selected components' innovation within undergraduate medical programs.
• Exploration of how SSCs allow students to choose specialty attachments.
• Identification of ideal ENT units for hosting these attachments.

Main Results:

• SSCs provide a structured opportunity for medical students to gain exposure to ENT.
• ENT departments can leverage SSCs to attract trainees and enhance foundational knowledge.
• Welcoming departments can effectively host student attachments.

Conclusions:

• Student-selected components are a valuable tool for increasing undergraduate ENT exposure.
• ENT is well-suited for SSCs, benefiting both students and the specialty.
• Implementation of ENT SSCs can address recruitment and knowledge gaps.