Innovations in teaching undergraduates about geriatric medicine and ageing – results from the UK National Survey of Teaching in Ageing and Geriatric Medicine

Abstract

Introduction This survey set out to identify innovations in teaching of ageing and geriatric medicine delivered to medical undergraduates in the UK. Methods An electronic questionnaire which asked respondents to report innovations in teaching of which they were particularly proud was sent to all 31 UK medical schools. Results Twenty-eight schools agreed to participate and full responses were received from 17. Thirteen of these reported innovations that were categorised in six areas – computing and technology, curriculum design, assessment, student-led teaching, multi-professional teaching, and clinical apprenticeships. The use of technology and multi-professional education were the most common areas of innovation. A broad theme touched on by most respondents was the teaching of ageing as a longitudinal theme throughout the course, across many disciplines, rather than in a discrete module. Conclusions These data reveal a number of innovations in undergraduate teaching of ageing and geriatric medicine within the UK. Work should now focus on how to disseminate current innovations and co-operate at a national and international level to develop future teaching interventions.