MedEdPORTAL (Oct 2015)
Allergy, Sinusitis, and Pharyngitis in Primary Care: A Team-Based Learning Module
Abstract
Abstract Introduction This module serves as part of a series of team-based learning (TBL) modules in our internal medicine residency ambulatory medicine curriculum. The module is designed to improve residents' ability to diagnose and treat allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, and pharyngitis. Methods The module includes an instructor's guide and student copies of readiness assessment tests and case-based application questions. It is suitable for TBL settings with small or larger groups of residents and requires about 90 minutes of classroom time. In line with traditional TBL formatting, learners engage in independent preparation (prereadings), readiness assessment to check their knowledge, and robust small-group discussion to share and build on their personal experience with each topic. Results This session was implemented with small groups of 10-12 internal medicine resident learners. Learner evaluation of this TBL curriculum was positive; when learners were asked to rate the value of the modules for increasing their knowledge of each topic, the TBL sessions in the curriculum averaged 4.5 on a 5-point scale (5 = most helpful). The survey reflects the learners' evaluation of seven TBLs delivered over a 1-year period. Residents commented that the ambulatory curriculum teaches about practical topics they see and use in clinic. Residents reported that they feel more comfortable treating sinusitis and upper respiratory infection, illnesses that they do not get much exposure to in an inpatient-heavy internal medicine residency. This particular TBL has been administered four times. Discussion TBL has been heavily utilized in undergraduate medical education. This module may also be suitable for other learners (family medicine residents, advanced-practice nurses, and physician's assistant students) who will be responsible for the treatment of upper respiratory symptoms in a primary care setting.
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