Integrating Foundational and Clinical Science Remotely by Combining Team-Based Learning and Simulation.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Health Professions Education

Background:

• Integrating foundational and clinical sciences enhances learning in professional healthcare programs.
• Guidance for integrating these sciences in non-professional programs is lacking.
• Existing integration methods are often resource-intensive and inaccessible.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an accessible, scalable online modality for integrating physiology, pharmacology, and clinical science.
• To address the gap in integration strategies for non-professional healthcare programs.

Main Methods:

• Developed an online learning module combining team-based learning (TBL) and simulation-based learning (SBL).
• Utilized a vital sign simulator, video conferencing, and document sharing.
• Designed for vertical and horizontal integration of scientific disciplines.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated improved student knowledge through pre- and post-testing.
• Provided evidence of enhanced integration of physiology, pharmacology, and clinical medicine.
• The modality proved effective and accessible for diverse learning environments.

Conclusions:

• The novel online TBL and SBL approach is effective for integrating foundational and clinical sciences.
• This modality is accessible, scalable, and adaptable to various delivery formats (in-person, hybrid, remote).
• It utilizes open-source software and standard equipment, making it widely applicable.