[Blended Learning Basic Course Sonography - A SGUM Accredited Ultrasound Course Based on Peer-Tutoring]

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Ultrasound Technology

Background:

• Peer tutoring is a common method for students to practice sonography skills.
• A collaborative project between Swiss universities and the Swiss Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (SGUM) supports this approach.
• Existing educational models often lack structured, peer-supported practical training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the strategic and didactic elements of an innovative blended learning ultrasound course.
• To outline the implementation status of a peer-tutoring based sonography training program.
• To provide a model for accredited ultrasound education integrating e-learning and practical skill development.

Main Methods:

• An e-learning course featuring video demonstrations of anatomy and examination standards.
• Twelve organ-specific lessons supplemented by practical training sessions with peer tutors.
• Logbook documentation of practical training and a final practical examination for accreditation.

Main Results:

• The course integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice through peer mentorship.
• Successful completion of the practical final exam leads to accreditation in the SGUM Abdomen Sonography Basic Course.
• The program demonstrates a structured approach to developing practical sonography competencies.

Conclusions:

• This blended learning model effectively facilitates the acquisition of practical sonography skills.
• Peer tutoring, supported by e-learning, offers a scalable and effective educational strategy.
• The SGUM-accredited course provides a standardized pathway for ultrasound training and certification.