Anatomy Scholars Program for Medical Students Entering a Surgical Residency

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Gross Anatomy

Background:

• Near-peer teaching offers unique educational opportunities for medical students.
• Exposure to surgery early in medical school can enhance residency preparation.
• Gross anatomy is a foundational subject for surgical disciplines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a near-peer teaching program in gross anatomy for upper-level medical students.
• To assess the benefits of this teaching model for both near-peer teachers and first-year medical students.
• To explore the potential of this program in preparing students for surgical residency.

Main Methods:

• Five upper-level medical students served as near-peer teachers (NPTs) in gross anatomy.
• NPTs engaged in teaching activities and reflected on their experiences.
• First-year medical students (MS1s) and faculty provided feedback on the program's value.

Main Results:

• NPTs reported significant improvements in their teaching skills, anatomy knowledge, and dissection skills.
• The program, referred to as the Anatomy Scholars Program (ASP), was valued by MS1s and faculty.
• The NPT role demanded the majority of the students' effort.

Conclusions:

• Near-peer teaching in gross anatomy effectively enhances medical students' teaching and clinical skills.
• The Anatomy Scholars Program (ASP) demonstrates potential as a valuable component of surgical education.
• Further development and evaluation of such programs are recommended for aspiring surgeons.