Curriculum Innovations: "Eye"-ing Enhanced Educational Methods for Neurology Trainees: Pilot of an Online, Case-based...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Ophthalmology
• Medical Education

Background:

• Neurologic conditions frequently present with neuro-ophthalmologic manifestations.
• A shortage of neurologists necessitates training frontline clinicians in neuro-ophthalmology.
• Developing accessible educational tools is crucial for medical students.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance medical students' understanding of neuro-ophthalmologic manifestations in common neurologic conditions.
• To describe diagnostic and treatment approaches for neuro-ophthalmologic conditions.
• To evaluate student satisfaction with an interactive, case-based e-learning module.

Main Methods:

• Developed online case modules for 5 high-stakes neurologic conditions with neuro-ophthalmologic findings.
• Conducted a 1-hour virtual interactive workshop for neurology clerkship students.
• Assessed knowledge improvement via pre/post-tests and gathered feedback through an exit survey.

Main Results:

• Mean knowledge scores increased significantly from 7.5 to 8.5/10 (p=0.00014).
• 70% of students reported a subjective increase in neuro-ophthalmology knowledge.
• Students preferred the interactive workshop over traditional didactics (73%) and recommended the platform (92%).

Conclusions:

• The interactive online learning intervention improved students' objective and subjective understanding of neuro-ophthalmology.
• The e-learning tool was favorably rated compared to traditional methods.
• Integrating such platforms into curricula can effectively increase exposure to essential topics.