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Early literacy training among medical students
Marny Dunlap1, Brooks Walker2, Christine Nguyen3
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA.
The Clinical Teacher
|July 27, 2021
Summary
Medical students recognize the importance of early literacy promotion for children. Most desire more training in early literacy and the Reach Out and Read (ROR) initiative, highlighting a need for formal education during medical school.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Medical Education
- Public Health
Background:
- The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes early literacy promotion.
- Medical professionals are crucial for promoting early literacy but need program knowledge.
- This study assesses medical student engagement with early literacy and the Reach Out and Read (ROR) initiative.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe medical student training, awareness, experiences, and attitudes regarding early literacy.
- To evaluate understanding and interest in the Reach Out and Read (ROR) program among medical students.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous online survey was administered to medical students at a Midwest medical school.
- Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the survey data from 275 respondents.
Main Results:
- Only 2.9% of medical students received formal training in early literacy promotion.
- A significant majority (67%) expressed a desire for more training in early literacy and ROR.
- Most students agreed that assessing and encouraging reading is part of a medical student's role.
Conclusions:
- Medical students acknowledge the significance of early literacy in primary care.
- There is a strong interest in early literacy promotion and ROR training, particularly in the early years of medical school.
- Formal training in literacy promotion should be integrated into the medical school curriculum, especially during the first two years.
