Perceptions of Competition-Based Learning After a Brief Experience at a National Surgical Meeting

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Skills Training
• Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS)

Background:

• Competition-based learning (CBL) enhances skill acquisition through competitive formats.
• The TOP GUN Shootout (TGS), a modified laparoscopic skills program, was evaluated at the 2022 & 2023 Annual SAGES meetings.
• The study assessed TGS's effectiveness in improving participant engagement and laparoscopic surgical skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the TOP GUN Shootout's (TGS) ability to enhance participant engagement in laparoscopic surgical skills.
• To assess the impact of a brief competition-based learning experience on minimally invasive surgery (MIS) skills.
• To determine participant confidence and interest in further MIS training after the TGS intervention.

Main Methods:

• Participants competed in TGS tasks, including Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery Peg Pass, Cup Drop Task, and Intracorporeal Suturing.
• Performance was measured by time and errors; participant satisfaction was assessed via a 10-question Likert scale survey.
• Survey domains covered pre-competition skill confidence, TGS applicability/satisfaction, and interest in further MIS training. Descriptive statistics were employed.

Main Results:

• 121 participants completed TGS; 84 (69%) completed the satisfaction survey. Average participant age was 32.9 years, with 67% males.
• Participant satisfaction scores were 5.04 (Domain 1: prior confidence), 6.20 (Domain 2: skill development), and 6.58 (Domain 3: future training interest).
• Results indicate moderate pre-competition confidence but high satisfaction with TGS for skill development and future training interest.

Conclusions:

• Participants reported low confidence in MIS skills before the TGS intervention.
• The brief CBL experience was perceived to effectively develop participants' MIS skills.
• This CBL approach may motivate learners to pursue additional MIS skill development and training.