Optimizing learner engagement during mental skills training: A pilot study of small group vs. individualized training

Mental skills limit surgical residents' skill decay resulting from stress. However, optimal mental skills delivery is unknown. We sought to compare the impact of implementing our curriculum in small groups and individually.

At baseline, residents completed assessments of mental skills and laparoscopic suturing. Residents then participated in a comprehensive mental skills curriculum at two institutions. At the first institution, residents completed small group training, whereas residents at the second institution trained individually. Following mental skills training, residents completed FLS training, at which time they completed the Short State Stress Questionnaire detailing their engagement. At post-test, residents completed baseline assessments again.

Twenty-one residents completed training. Small groups were less engaged after training than individuals (Group average engagement: 26.4 vs. Individual average engagement: 29.6, p = 0.06).

Delivering mental skills individually facilitates greater engagement than training in small groups, but regardless of delivery method, our MSC can achieve the same outcomes on surgical performance.