Comparing Blended Learning with Faculty-Led Ultrasound Training: Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial (The...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Point-of-Care Ultrasound Training

Background:

• Ultrasound is a vital bedside tool in clinical practice.
• Integrating ultrasound training into undergraduate medical curricula is essential for graduating physicians.
• Current faculty-led courses in Switzerland lack capacity and have questioned effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of a novel blended-learning ultrasound course with the traditional faculty-led method.
• To determine if the blended-learning format can meet the growing demand for undergraduate ultrasound education.

Main Methods:

• The SIGNATURE study is a randomized controlled trial involving 152 medical students across three Swiss universities.
• Participants were randomized to a 21-hour blended-learning course (e-learning + near-peer tutoring) or a 21-hour faculty-led course.
• Outcomes were assessed via a six-station objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) and online questionnaires.

Main Results:

• The study aims to demonstrate the non-inferiority or superiority of the blended-learning approach.
• Results will indicate the effectiveness of the new teaching format compared to traditional methods.

Conclusions:

• If effective, the blended-learning course offers a scalable solution to increase undergraduate medical students' ultrasound proficiency.
• This innovative training model could better prepare future residents with essential bedside ultrasound skills.