Teaching and learning methods for new generalist physicians

This paper describes teaching and learning methods that can be used to build the competencies needed by the generalist physician. Supervised patient care, problem-based learning, and ongoing feedback through standardized patients all have proven efficacy in several domains. Computer-based learning has much to offer as a supplement to clinical teaching. New learning experiences in continuous improvement promise to cover areas that are not often reached by traditional methods, especially those of cost-effectiveness and quality of care. The authors review each method's principles, relationship to generalist competencies, examples of effective applications, and challenges to successful implementation. Where possible, they summarize what is known about the relationships of learning and teaching methods to career choices in generalism.