Learning in the most intimidating ‘classroom’ - the operating theatre: A guide for medical students and junior doctors

Abstract

The decision to pursue a career in medicine is a reflection of one’s commitment to lifelong learning. From the moment one steps through the lecture theatre doors all the way to when he/she hangs up their stethoscope for the final time, the medic embarks on a lifelong journey of education and self-improvement. Although there is a constant emphasis on learning, the learning environment constantly evolves. Pre-clinical students by and large are taught through a combination of lecture-based and small-group theoretical and practical teaching. As these students progress to become clinical students, the main focus of their learning shifts from the lecture theatre to the clinical environment (hospitals, clinics and GP surgeries). As ophthalmology is a unique blend of medicine and surgery, clinical medical students and junior doctors may find themselves in a clinical setting that they may not be accustomed to – the operating theatre.