Carla M. Pugh

MD, PhD., Stanford University

“The Integration of Simulations in the Medical Curriculum: Collection and Analysis of Electronic Performance Data”

Basic science research and the information age have contributed greatly to the exponential growth in new medical knowledge. As a result, the amount of cognitive and technical skills knowledge that has been inadequately taught and assessed during the four years of medical training is on a sharp incline. In a recent series of experiments evaluating the e-pelvis simulator, innovative data characterizing individual skills performance was collected. Data analyses demonstrate that raw, electronic data collected during simulated clinical exams correlate with written assessment measures. These findings scientifically indicate a clear association between cognitive and technical skills performance.  In addition, the results demonstrate specific, objective differences in clinical pelvic examination skills when comparing novice medical students and experienced clinicians, establishing construct validity. Simulations, virtual environments and web-based learning hold the promise of a new era for medical education where sound, innovative methods of self-learning and assessment will be the norm pedagogical experience for future students; forever changing the learning environments we know today.