The effectiveness of early clinical exposure in teaching anatomy: A study among 1st year medical students

Abstract

Background and Objective: The new study model of the Medical Council of India 2015, suggested the introduction of a module of early clinical exposure (ECE) to 1st year medical students to improve their understanding of the subjects taught. Thus, the main objective of the study was to assess; how students respond to the modified curriculum of ECE in the 1st year. Methodology: Cross-sectional study was conducted among 1st year medical students (n = 140) and were brought to the hospital; followed by the demonstration of a visual relay of an appendectomy procedure, which in turn was followed by an interactive session with the facilitators. Following this, the students filled a questionnaire (designed as per the Likert scale) about their opinion of the module. In addition, a test was conducted before and after the module to assess the comprehension of the subject by the students. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics (for qualitative variables) and t-test, for determining the significance between pre- and post-test scores. Results: Ninety-five percent of the students responded extremely well to ECE and was appreciated by the students. This was clear through the positive feedback received on improvement in understanding and interest in the subject. The pre- and post-test evaluation also resulted in a significant increase in test scores, (P = 2.20e−16). Conclusion: ECE module significantly helped 1st year medical students to comprehend the topic better. It made learning interesting and helped those correlate basic sciences with their clinical applications and relevance in practical medicine.

Keywords

• appendectomy
• comprehension
• learning
• medical students