Integrated modular teaching in dermatology for undergraduate students: A novel approach

Abstract

Context:Undergraduate teaching in dermatology comprises didactic lectures and clinical classes. Integrated modular teaching is a novel approach, which integrates basic sciences with dermatology in the form of a module. Further the module also incorporates various teaching modalities, which facilitate active participation from students and promotes learning. The pre- and post-test values showed the effectiveness of the integrated module. The students feedback was encouraging.Aims:The aim of this study was to determine the acceptance and opinion of undergraduate students regarding integrated modular teaching as a new teaching aid in dermatology.Settings and Design:This was a descriptive study. Varied teaching methodologies involving multiple disciplines were undertaken in six major undergraduate topics in dermatology for seventh and eighth semester students.Materials and Methods:A total of six modules were conducted over a period of 12 months for students of seventh and eighth semesters. The topics for the various modules were sexually transmitted diseases, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, oral ulcers, leprosy, connective tissue disorders and psoriasis. Faculty members from different disciplines participated. Pre- and post-test were conducted before and after the modules respectively to gauge the effectiveness of the modules.Results:It was found that almost every student had a better score on the posttest as compared to the pretest. General feedback obtained from the students showed that all of them felt that modular teaching was a more interesting and useful teaching learning experience than conventional teaching.Conclusions:Integrated modular teaching can be an effective adjunct in imparting theoretical and practical knowledge to the students. Further, various teaching methodologies can be used in integrated modules effectively with active student participation. Thus integrated modular teaching addresses two important issues in medical education, namely integration and active student participation.

Contribution of integrated teaching in the improvement of an undergraduate ophthalmology curriculum

“…This transition was in accordance with previous studies that identified factors such as curriculum and examinations as fundamental for undergraduate learning 10,11. Seminars in small student groups in lieu of lectures as well as increased student involvement are the basic characteristics of this significant curriculum modification.…”

Student’s perception about Modular teaching and various instructional strategies in the subject of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

“…14 Learners can be exposed to various teaching methodologies in modules with positive students' acceptance. 7 Active learning strategies are not only supported by adult learning theories but local accreditation authorities also demand to redefine medical programmes so that students have an opportunity to develop competencies related to professionalism and medical ethics. Education experts advocate that students are more focused and motivated by learner oriented teaching when compared to traditional methods.…”

“…Modules also provide the opportunity to use various interactive modalities which seems to be more attractive to students and facilitate active learner′s participation. 7 The medical training in Pakistan is still in the process of transformation to meet the international standards of healthcare. Local health authorities have highlighted the need to replace traditional classroom teaching with more student focused approaches.…”

Evaluation of a Hybrid Undergraduate Dermatology Training workshop during Family Medicine clerkship

“…Various methods of teaching dermatology have been tried around the world. 2,3,4,5 Skin diseases are usually taught in specialist clinics in many countries. ese cases tend to be quite di erent from that in primary care.…”