Developing a Core Clinical Skills Curriculum for USM Medical Students.

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: How to Develop a Core Curriculum in Clinical Skills for Undergraduate Medical Teaching in the School of Medical Sciences at Universiti Sains Malaysia?
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Shahid Hassan


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: How to Develop a Core Curriculum in Clinical Skills for Undergraduate Medical Teaching in the School of Medical Sciences at Universiti Sains Malaysia?

Year: 2007

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The clinical skills program is an essential component of undergraduate medical training at the School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). Based on the Dundee model for clinical skills centers, this program seeks to integrate clinical skills training with the existing problem-based learning (PBL) curriculum. The integration aims to address concerns regarding the potential inadequacies of PBL alone in building clinical competency, particularly in comparison to traditional medical curricula. By incorporating clinical skills labs early in the training process, it is hoped that students will become proficient and confident in their clinical abilities before engaging with real patients in clinical settings.

Importance of Curriculum Integration

A critical aspect of enhancing clinical skills training is the integration of the curriculum that aligns PBL with clinical skills laboratory training. The development of a core curriculum involves a systematic approach through various stages, including identifying essential clinical skills, ensuring these are taught effectively, and establishing appropriate assessment methods. The proposal emphasizes the need for a cohesive training environment, which involves establishing a timetable that allows sufficient time for skills practice and exposure to both simulated and real patient scenarios. This integration not only facilitates a smoother transition from theoretical knowledge to practical application but also mitigates the stress and challenges faced by students in their early clinical experiences.

Conclusion

Integrating clinical skills lab training with the PBL curriculum in the School of Medical Sciences at USM promises to enhance students' clinical competencies significantly. By utilizing a well-structured program that identifies essential skills and provides ample opportunities for practice, the curriculum aims to fill existing gaps between theoretical learning and real-life application. This robust integration will ultimately ensure that graduates are better prepared for the realities of clinical practice, achieving the desired outcome objectives and fostering competent and confident healthcare professionals.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the significance of clinical skills training in medical education?

Clinical skills training enhances the competence of medical graduates by providing them with hands-on experience. It counters the perceived inadequacies of problem-based learning in preparing students for real patient interactions and builds their confidence in clinical practice.

How does the Dundee model contribute to clinical skills curriculum development?

The Dundee model emphasizes structured development of clinical skills training. A curriculum development group identifies essential skills, integrates them with problem-based learning, maintains horizontal and vertical integration, and regularly reviews outcomes to optimize student learning and competency.

What challenges can arise from the integration of PBL and clinical skills training?

Challenges include limited time for skills practice within a busy schedule and potential gaps between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Early clinical exposure without sufficient preparation can lead to reality shock, emphasizing the need for structured skills training.

What outcomes can be expected from integrating clinical skills lab training?

Integrating clinical skills lab training with PBL can enhance student competency and confidence. It prepares students for real patient interactions, facilitates hands-on practice, and ensures they acquire fundamental skills earlier in their medical education, leading to better overall performance.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Developing a Core Clinical Skills Curriculum for USM Medical Students.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Teaching:
Teaching is the process of imparting knowledge and skills to students, often through structured curricula and methodologies. In medical education, teaching encompasses both theoretical concepts and practical applications, particularly in clinical skills, to ensure students acquire the necessary competencies required to become effective practitioners in healthcare.

2) Training:
Training refers to the systematic process of developing specific skills or competencies through repeated practice and guidance. In the context of medical education, training typically occurs in clinical skills labs, where students practice procedures in a controlled environment, allowing them to gain confidence and proficiency before real patient interactions.

3) Learning:
Learning is the acquisition of knowledge or skills through experience, study, or teaching. In medical education, effective learning combines theoretical understanding with practical application, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Integrating learning opportunities in clinical settings enhances retention and prepares students for real-world challenges in patient care.

4) Education:
Education encompasses the broader framework of knowledge transmission, often spanning multiple disciplines and levels. In medical training, education involves curriculum development, instructional strategies, and assessment methods that prepare students for professional practice. It emphasizes developing well-rounded healthcare professionals equipped with both clinical skills and theoretical insights.

5) Science (Scientific):
Scientific pertains to methods or principles based on empirical evidence and structured inquiry. In medical education, a scientific approach underlines the need for evidence-based practices, integrating research with clinical training. This foundation enables students to apply the latest advancements in medicine for improved patient outcomes and care efficiency.

6) Table:
In educational contexts, a table often presents data in an organized manner, facilitating analysis and comparison. In the article, tables illustrate the structure of the skills curriculum and expected outcomes, serving as essential tools for educators and curriculum developers to visualize the integration of theoretical and practical components.

7) Developing:
Developing refers to the process of growth, improvement, and advancement in skills, knowledge, or systems. In medical education, developing a curriculum or training program involves systematically enhancing educational offerings to meet evolving needs, incorporating best practices and evidence-based approaches to ensure student competence and success in clinical settings.

8) Medicine:
Medicine is the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness. In the educational context, it emphasizes the importance of integrating clinical skills training with foundational knowledge to produce competent and compassionate healthcare practitioners who can effectively address diverse patient needs and contribute to community health.

9) Knowledge:
Knowledge is the accumulation of facts, information, and understanding acquired through experience or education. In medical education, it is critical for students to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling them to make informed decisions and provide safe, effective patient care in various healthcare settings.

10) Life:
Life, in the medical context, refers to the biological and physiological aspects of human existence, including health, disease, and wellness. Medical education aims to prepare students to understand these complexities and promote health through preventive care, diagnosis, and treatment, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for individuals and communities.

11) Performance:
Performance assesses how well an individual executes tasks or skills. In medical education, performance evaluations often measure students' clinical competencies, assessing their ability to apply knowledge in practice. Continuous feedback and assessment promote ongoing improvement and ensure graduates meet the standards expected of healthcare professionals.

12) Discussion:
Discussion is a process of exchanging ideas and viewpoints among individuals. In medical education, discussions foster collaborative learning, critical thinking, and deeper understanding. Engaging in discussions about clinical scenarios helps students relate theoretical knowledge to real-life situations, enhancing their problem-solving abilities in medical practice.

13) Meeting:
Meeting refers to gatherings of individuals to discuss and coordinate activities. In educational settings, meetings among faculty and curriculum development teams are vital for ensuring alignment between teaching methods, curricular goals, and assessment strategies, facilitating the continuous improvement of medical education programs to better train future doctors.

14) Pulse:
Pulse signifies the throbbing of arteries caused by heart contractions, reflecting a person's heart rate and overall cardiovascular health. In medical education, understanding pulse measurement is a fundamental clinical skill that informs patient assessments, aids in diagnosing conditions, and illustrates the importance of vital signs in clinical practice.

15) Blood:
Blood is a vital fluid that circulates throughout the body, transporting oxygen, nutrients, and waste products. In medical education, understanding blood composition and function is critical for diagnosing and managing various health conditions. Learning to perform blood-related procedures, like drawing blood, is essential for clinical practice.

16) Study (Studying):
Study is the process of systematic learning, involving engagement with materials and concepts to acquire understanding and skills. In medical education, effective study strategies are crucial for mastering complex subjects, integrating knowledge with clinical practice, and ultimately excelling in examinations and practical assessments throughout one's training.

17) Arrangement:
Arrangement refers to the organization or structuring of components to achieve a specific goal. In the context of educational curricula, thoughtful arrangement of teaching, learning activities, and assessment methods can significantly enhance the learning experience, ensuring that students effectively develop clinical competencies through well-timed and sequenced training.

18) Practising (Practicing):
Practicing is synonymous with practising and refers to the act of performing tasks or skills repeatedly to achieve mastery. In medical curricula, this entails regular engagement with clinical skills, ensuring students become adept in procedures. The goal is consistent improvement, preparing them for real-life applications in patient care settings.

19) Observing:
Observing involves watching carefully to gain information or insight. In medical education, observation is a key component of learning, allowing students to witness clinical practices, patient interactions, and procedures. By observing experienced clinicians, students deepen their understanding and enhance their application of theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.

20) Suffering:
Suffering relates to the experience of pain or distress, often associated with illness or injury. In medical education, recognizing the suffering of patients is crucial for developing empathetic clinicians. The curriculum must instill an understanding of the human experience, encouraging future doctors to approach patient care with compassion and understanding.

21) Realising (Realizing):
Realizing refers to the process of becoming fully aware or understanding something. In medical education, realizing the importance of clinical skills and their integration with theoretical knowledge is essential. This awareness drives effective learning, motivating students to engage in both practical training and comprehensive study to improve patient care.

22) Activity:
Activity denotes actions or tasks undertaken for a specific purpose. In medical education, various activities—including lectures, skills practice, and clinical rotations—contribute to students' development. Engaging in diverse learning activities broadens students' experiences, enhances their competencies, and prepares them for the multifaceted demands of healthcare.

23) Writing:
Writing entails the act of composing text to convey information, ideas, or research. In medical education, writing clinical reports, reflection papers, or research articles helps students articulate their understanding and analytical skills. This practice fosters critical thinking and synthesizes knowledge gained through practice and observation in clinical settings.

24) Cutting:
Cutting, particularly in a medical context, refers to surgical procedures that involve incisions in tissues. In medical education, mastering surgical techniques is essential for students aiming to specialize in surgery. This skill must be approached with a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice to ensure patient safety and effective outcomes.

25) Disease:
Disease denotes a pathological condition affecting an organism's normal functioning. Medical education focuses on understanding the mechanisms, symptoms, and treatments of diseases. This foundational knowledge is critical for medical students as they prepare to diagnose and manage various health conditions in their future careers.

26) Family:
Family signifies the primary social unit consisting of individuals connected through kinship. In medical education, understanding family dynamics and their impact on health is vital. Incorporating a family-centered approach into training equips future healthcare providers with the skills to address multifaceted health issues that extend beyond the individual.

27) Strak:
Strak refers to the author of a cited work discussing clinical skills teaching in developing countries. This reference highlights the importance of innovative teaching methods and skills centers in improving medical education. Recognizing contributions from various authors emphasizes the collaborative nature of the educational landscape in shaping professionals.

28) Annal (Annaḷ, Aṇṇal, Aṉṉal, Annāḷ):
Annal denotes a record or narrative, especially regarding events or developments over time. In the context of medical literature, annals often serve as archives of significant findings and advancements. They are crucial for medical education, as they help students understand the historical context and evolution of medical practices and theories.

29) Hand:
Hand refers to the anatomical structure used in various clinical assessments and procedures. In medical education, skills related to using hands, such as examination techniques and performing procedures, are integral. Mastering hand skills is essential for effective patient interaction and delivering quality healthcare.

30) Pur (Pūr):
Poor describes a state of deficiency or inadequacy, often used in the context of health outcomes or resources. In medical education, addressing the needs of underprivileged populations is essential. Training future health professionals to provide care for poorer communities is crucial in promoting health equity and improving overall public health.

31) Pir (Pīr):
Peer denotes individuals at a similar level or status. In medical education, peer learning fosters collaboration, critical reflection, and shared knowledge among students. This method enhances the learning experience, as students engage in discussions, simulations, and role-plays, reinforcing their skills and understanding in a supportive environment.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Developing a Core Clinical Skills Curriculum for USM Medical Students.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Teaching and learning, Medical education, Medical college, Medical graduate, Symbiotic relationship, Experiential learning, Curriculum development, Developing countries, Soft skills, Clinical Practice, Medical teaching institution, Clinical case report, Integrated curriculum, Self-directed learning, Problem-based learning, Clinical skills training, Clinical exposure, Curriculum integration, Health care team, Medical student, Clinical teaching, Undergraduate curriculum, Phase III, Patient-centered Practice, Clinical skills program, Clinical skill, Collaborative learning, Undergraduate medical, Internship training, Phase II.

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