Abstract
Introduction and Problem Statement
Few formal programs provide structured training in medical education (MedEd) early in a learner's career. MedEd training curricula for medical students may cultivate student understanding (and thus interest) in a MedEd career. The Johns Hopkins Osler Apprenticeship (OA) in Neurology is a structured 1-year program for senior medical students (Osler Apprentices/OAs) created to develop talent in MedEd.
Objectives
By the end of the program, OAs will be better able to (1) cultivate and sustain longitudinal mentorship relationships; (2) design, implement, and present a MedEd project; (3) understand individual leadership strengths; (4) develop and refine skills in educational leadership and integrate feedback to enhance learning experiences; and (5) develop an understanding of the responsibilities of an academic educator.
Methods and Curriculum Description
The OA is a 1-year program that provides learners with comprehensive exposure to MedEd through key program components of mentorship, a scholarly project, strength coaching, and leadership and experiential opportunities. To evaluate the program's impact on OAs and preceptor motivations for engagement and its benefits, we administered 3 distinct surveys to OAs at exit, OA alumni, and faculty preceptors. We implemented the 4 levels of the New World Kirkpatrick Model to evaluate the impact of the program.
Results and Assessment Data
Twenty-four of 33 OAs (73%), 18 of 29 alumni (62%), and 6 of 7 preceptors (86%) responded to the surveys. Twenty-one OAs (88%) and 18 alumni (100%) recommended the OA to medical students (level 1). Alumni felt confident participating in educational activities (n = 15/83%), research (n = 15/83%), and leadership (n = 12/67%). Thirty-one OAs (94%) produced educational scholarship (level 2). OAs (n = 22/92%) and alumni (n = 14/78%) agreed that the OA influenced their academic practices and behaviors, and 7 alumni (39%) were recognized or awarded (level 3). Ten alumni (56%) have an educational role (level 4). Preceptors had scholarly output from the OA and reported career or personal development as key factors for participation.
Discussion and Lessons Learned
The OA made effective progress toward building a pathway for medical educators while supporting the careers of faculty, allowing for program sustainability. These findings suggest the OA may serve as a prototype for more formalized training programs in neurology MedEd.
