The Use of E-learning Modules to Improve Student Knowledge in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Abstract

OPEN ACCESSSeptember 23, 2014The Use of E-learning Modules to Improve Student Knowledge in Obstetrics and Gynecology Carmen Obando, PhD, Joel Maurer, MD, Geraud Plantegenest, Christina Dokter, PhD Carmen Obando, PhD Michigan State University College of Human Medicine Google Scholar More articles by this author , Joel Maurer, MD Michigan State University College of Human Medicine Google Scholar More articles by this author , Geraud Plantegenest Michigan State University College of Human Medicine Google Scholar More articles by this author , Christina Dokter, PhD Michigan State University College of Human Medicine Google Scholar More articles by this author https://doi.org/10.15766/mep_2374-8265.9920 SectionsAbout ToolsDownload Citations ShareFacebookTwitterEmail AbstractAbstract Introduction: The Obstetrics and Gynecology e-learning modules included in this resource are a set of three interactive self-directed learning instruments that offer alternative explanations of three different clinical case scenarios: amenorrhea, vaginitis, and third-trimester bleeding. These three topics were found to be rare in some clinical settings, thus making it difficult for students to observe them during their rotations. Methods: These modules allow students to observe patient-physician interactions and to identify symptoms and alternative diagnoses by using photos, videos, graphics, animations, text, and notes. The time needed to review each module varies by student. A student can take as much time as needed for each of the components and view them in the order desired. Results: Students' feedback suggests that they liked the availability of the modules as an online resource they could access at any time to review as many times as they needed. The interaction and self-directed characteristics of the modules also allowed the students to learn at their own pace. Discussion: The use of these modules reduces learning disparities by creating standardized simulated cases regardless of the number of cases encountered during the clerkship. The modules are accessible 24/7 to all students going through the OB-GYN clerkship and to faculty and staff through our departmental website, and students are required to review them before their hands-on experience. One of the limitations imposed by the use of online teaching materials is the lack of live interaction with an instructor. This can be easily compensated for by complementing use of the modules with a face-to-face interaction with the preceptor to review concepts not well understood by the student and to obtain feedback on any of the clinical cases presented. Educational Objectives By the end of the vulvar disease/vaginitis module, learners will be able to: Recognize vaginal conditions and consequences.Review differential diagnoses.Interpret a wet mount and microscopic examination.Complete all the steps of the evaluation and management of symptoms. By the end of the abnormal obstetrics/third-trimester bleeding module, learners will be able to: Practice the evaluation and management for reducing maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.Review of the causes, initial evaluation, differentiation of signs and symptoms, and evaluation of acute blood loss and complications. By the end of the reproductive endocrinology/amenorrhea module, learners will be able to evaluate amenorrhea including the definition, pathophysiology, etiology, associated symptoms, evaluation and management, and consequences of an untreated condition. Sign up for the latest publications from MedEdPORTAL Add your email below FILES INCLUDEDReferencesRelatedDetails FILES INCLUDED Included in this publication: Instructor's Guide.docx Obstetrics and Gynecology E-learning Modules folder To view all publication components, extract (i.e., unzip) them from the downloaded .zip file. Download editor’s noteThis publication may contain technology or a display format that is no longer in use. Copyright & Permissions© 2014 Obando et al. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivatives license.KeywordsBleedingVaginitisGynecologyThird TrimesterObstetricsInteractiveModulesHemorrhageAmenorrhea Disclosures None to report. Funding/Support None to report. Loading ...