Resident perceptions of learning challenges in concussion care education

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Concussion Management
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Competency-based medical education for concussion care is needed.
• Spiral Integrated Curricula (SIC) were developed using cognitive constructivism and Utilization-Focused Evaluation (UFE).
• Previous quantitative evaluation showed effectiveness but highlighted ongoing challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore resident perceptions of concussion learning challenges.
• To understand the reasons behind learning difficulties in concussion care.
• To identify factors influencing competency acquisition in concussion management.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interpretative cohort study design.
• Longitudinal case logs (6 months) for resident reflection on concussion exposure.
• Semi-structured interviews to gather in-depth learner perspectives.

Main Results:

• Resident beliefs and role perceptions influenced learning approaches.
• Knowledge gaps in declarative knowledge and knowledge interconnections were identified as key challenges.
• Reflection facilitated the identification of competency gaps and led to transformative learning.

Conclusions:

• The Spiral Integrated Design effectively interrogated concussion competency gaps.
• Resident mindsets and curriculum factors hindered learning and potentially impacted patient care continuity.
• Future research should focus on adaptive expertise and interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance concussion education.