Teaching of medical ethics

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Bioethics
• Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Background:

• Medical ethics education is crucial in obstetrics and gynaecology.
• Interdisciplinary approaches can enhance ethical training.
• Manchester's Centre for Social Ethics and Policy collaborates on medical ethics teaching.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the evolution of medical ethics teaching in an introductory obstetrics and gynaecology course.
• To evaluate the impact of shifting from small-group discussions to open student-led debates.
• To assess the benefits of integrating humanities into medical ethics education.

Main Methods:

• The teaching methodology transitioned from lectures and small-group discussions to open debates.
• Student involvement and participation were key components.
• Exposure to humanities disciplines was incorporated.

Main Results:

• The shift to student-led open debates replaced traditional small-group discussions.
• Increased student involvement and participation were observed.
• Exposure to humanities broadened students' approaches to complex reproductive health issues.

Conclusions:

• Student-led debates in medical ethics foster greater engagement.
• Integrating humanities enhances problem-solving skills in obstetrics and gynaecology.
• This interdisciplinary model offers a valuable approach to medical ethics education.