Creating a Positive Learning Environment: Educational Film and Discussion Guide

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The overall objectives of this teaching session are to demonstrate types of mistreatment as defined by the Association of American Medical Colleges and to begin a discussion about how to prevent, reduce, or eliminate mistreatment in the learning environment. This film/discussion experience is intended to engage participants in a dialogue on the problem of medical student mistreatment and to provide a forum to explore behaviors that may either contribute to or mitigate the problem. By viewing the film and reflecting on their own experiences, participants become more aware of the complexity of the problem. Ideally, participants can identify both internal (personal) and external (systemic) barriers to creating and maintaining an optimal learning environment. Methods The film and discussion take roughly 60-65 minutes (8 minutes for the film, 15 minutes for background information, and 40 minutes for discussion) and are designed for either a large− or small-group setting. Results This resource was presented and well received at several grand rounds, educational committees, residents-as-teacher didactics, and medical student clerkship orientations. The discussions generated by the film raised participants' consciousness and were helpful to them. Participants appreciated that the curriculum had been designed to promote discussion of a complex problem rather than to provide a black-and-white depiction with definitive answers. Discussion It is important that instructors emphasize the fact that the film is purposefully ambiguous and meant to reflect the complexity of this problem. Because the scenarios presented are designed to be subtle, this learning exercise requires facilitators who can promote an honest and mutually supportive discussion on the nuances of the behaviors demonstrated.

Keywords

• Video
• Learning
• Learning Environment
• Learner Mistreatment
• Positive Learning Environment
• Behavior Change