Medical students as teachers at CoSMO, Columbia University's student-run clinic: A pilot study and literature review

Abstract

Background: Although medical students are expected to teach as soon as they begin residency, medical schools have just recently begun adding teacher training to their curricula. Student-run clinics (SRCs) may provide opportunities in clinical teaching before residency.

Aim: The aim of this pilot study was to examine students’ experiences in clinical teaching at Columbia Student Medical Outreach (CoSMO), Columbia University's SRC, during the 2009–2010 school year.

Methods: A mixed-methods approach was used. Data included closed and open-ended surveys (n = 34), combined interviews with preclinical and clinical student pairs (n = 5), individual interviews (n = 10), and focus groups (n = 3). The transcripts were analyzed using the principles of grounded theory.

Results: Many students had their first clinical teaching experience while volunteering at CoSMO. Clinical students’ ability to teach affected the quality of the learning experience for their preclinical peers. Preclinical students who asked questions and engaged in patient care challenged their clinical peers to balance teaching with patient care. Clinical students began to see themselves as teachers while volunteering at CoSMO.

Conclusion: The practical experiences in clinical teaching that students have at SRCs can supplement classroom-based trainings. Medical schools might revisit their SRCs as places for exposure to clinical teaching.