Modification of Peyton's four-step approach for small group teaching - a descriptive study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Clinical Skills Training
• Pedagogy

Background:

• Skills-lab training is integral to medical education.
• Peyton's Four-Step Approach is a prevalent teaching method.
• The original Peyton's Approach is designed for one-to-one instruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt and evaluate Peyton's Four-Step Approach for small group medical skills training.
• To assess the feasibility and student/tutor perceptions of a modified Peyton's Approach.

Main Methods:

• A modified Peyton's Approach was used in three IV catheter insertion skills-lab sessions.
• Nine first- and second-year medical students participated.
• Evaluation included self-assessment, expert ratings, and qualitative interviews.

Main Results:

• The modified approach was well-accepted and easy to implement.
• Trainees valued repeated observation and independent practice.
• Tutors noted high student concentration and the value of repeated observation.

Conclusions:

• The modified Peyton's Approach is a practicable and effective method for small group skills-lab training.
• The approach is well-received by both students and tutors.
• Future research should explore its use with larger groups.