A career exploration didactic and simulation-based session increases student knowledge in and exposure to urology

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Urology

Background:

• Urology is an underrepresented specialty in early medical education.
• Limited opportunities exist for medical students to gain exposure to urology and its procedural skills.
• Simulation-based training is a valuable tool for supplementing medical education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of a half-day didactic and simulation-based curriculum designed to increase exposure to urology for second-year medical students.
• To evaluate knowledge gains and gather feedback on the introductory urology session.

Main Methods:

• A half-day session combining didactic lectures and hands-on simulations was delivered to 57 second-year medical students.
• The curriculum covered an overview of urology and basic procedural skills.
• A post-curriculum survey assessed knowledge acquisition and participant satisfaction.

Main Results:

• Students reported a 37% average increase in knowledge regarding urology careers and procedures (p<0.001).
• The majority of students (80%) were already considering a surgical specialty prior to the session.
• Participants highly recommended the curriculum to their peers (p<0.001).

Conclusions:

• A brief, early exposure to urology through didactic and simulation methods can effectively introduce medical students to the specialty.
• This approach enhances understanding of urologic careers and common bedside procedures.
• The curriculum serves as a valuable early intervention for students interested in surgical specialties.