An integrated oncology course for second year medical students

A required course for second year medical students explores an integrated approach to the patient with cancer. Lectures detail the role of each medical discipline in the management of cancer. Panel discussions illustrate the cooperation necessary between clinical specialties in the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases. A small group session provides a problem-solving exercise around a patient with cancer, and laboratory sessions present the opportunity for students to receive hands-on experience in detecting tumor masses in anatomical models as well as the opportunity for students to test their stools for occult blood. Evaluation of the course has shown that students increase significantly their knowledge about cancer, that "practice-effect" is not a factor from pre- to post-test, and that although students improve in their capacity to solve problems they are less proficient in this than retention of facts. Student surveys have indicated generally good acceptance of most aspects of the course.