A Near-Peer Educational Model for Online, Interactive Learning in Emergency Medicine

West J Emerg Med. 2020 Dec 21;22(1):130-135. doi: 10.5811/westjem.2020.12.49101.

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic led to a large disruption in the clinical education of medical students, particularly in-person clinical activities. To address the resulting challenges faced by students interested in emergency medicine (EM), we proposed and held a peer-led, online learning course for rising fourth-year medical students.

Methods: A total of 61 medical students participated in an eight-lecture EM course. Students were evaluated through pre- and post-course assessments designed to ascertain perceived comfort with learning objectives and overall course feedback. Pre- and post-lecture assignments were also used to increase student learning.

Results: Mean confidence improved in every learning objective after the course. Favored participation methods were three-person call-outs, polling, and using the "chat" function. Resident participation was valued for "real-life" examples and clinical pearls.

Conclusion: This interactive model for online EM education can be an effective format for dissemination when in-person education may not be available.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 / prevention & control*
  • Curriculum
  • Education, Distance / methods*
  • Education, Medical, Undergraduate / methods*
  • Educational Measurement
  • Emergency Medicine / education*
  • Humans
  • Leadership*
  • Learning
  • Models, Educational*
  • New York City
  • Peer Group*
  • Self Concept
  • Simulation Training / methods
  • Students, Medical / psychology