Teaching evidence-based medicine with electronic databases for preclinical education

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Evidence-Based Medicine
• Information Literacy

Background:

• Preclinical medical education requires effective training in evidence-based medicine (EBM).
• Integrating electronic medical databases (EMDs) into EBM training can enhance learning.
• Problem-based learning (PBL) formats are valuable for clinical scenario training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of an EBM educational module supported by EMDs.
• To evaluate the impact on preclinical medical students' EBM knowledge, skills, and confidence.
• To measure changes in resource utilization and application of EBM principles.

Main Methods:

• A 16-session EBM module with hands-on EMD training was delivered to 111 medical students.
• Oral presentations on clinical scenarios were used to assess performance before and after the module.
• Questionnaires evaluated changes in awareness, behavior, and confidence regarding EBM.

Main Results:

• Post-program oral presentations demonstrated improved utilization of EBM concepts and resources.
• Students reported increased awareness of EBM and greater use of library-provided EBM resources.
• 99% of participants reported high confidence in practicing EBM, with noted improvements in resource application.

Conclusions:

• EBM modules integrated with EMDs are beneficial for medical students in PBL settings.
• The intervention led to significant improvements in students' EBM awareness, behavior, confidence, and performance.
• This educational approach effectively enhances the mastery of evidence-based medicine in preclinical training.