Peer-assisted learning in the acquisition of clinical skills: a supplementary approach to musculoskeletal system training

Abstract

Background: This study evaluates whether peer-assisted learning (PAL) can be used to improve students’ clinical examination skills.

Methods: Four year 4 students trained in PAL techniques and musculoskeletal (MSS) examination used the Gait, Arms, Legs and Spine (GALS) system in a five-week student selected module. These students then recruited and trained 28 second-year trainees. Trainees were evaluated using pre/post confidence questionnaires (100 mm visual analogue scale), a course experience questionnaire (five-point Likert scales) and end-of-year objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) scores.

Results: Baseline data from the experimental group were no different from a separate control group, but after training a statistically significant difference in confidence levels was observed in all parts of GALS, <38 to >73 (p < 0.0001). Course experience questionnaires demonstrated benefits in all parameters including communication skills and group work with all students recommending PAL training. In end-of-year OSCE 93% of PAL-trained students passed the MSS examination station compared with 67% for those participating in the standard curriculum alone (p < 0.0001). Examination results for other clinical skill stations showed no difference in performance between the two groups.

Conclusions: This study shows that PAL is a useful adjunct to MSS training, and could be incorporated into medical curricula to enhance clinical skills.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Joanne Burke

JOANNE BURKE BSc (Hons), PhD, ILTM, PGDip, is a Senior University Teacher in the Medical School at the University of Glasgow. She helps to deliver, assess, evaluate and support undergraduate medical education. Her interests in educational research include problem-based learning and peer-assisted learning.

Saeed Fayaz

SAEED FAYEZ BScPT (Hons), MScPT, MSc, Sports Medicine, is a Physiotherapist interested in musculoskeletal medicine and undergraduate education. Until August 2005 he was working as Research Fellow in peer-assisted learning at the University of Glasgow. He is now Senior Lecturer in sports injury at the University of Sunderland.

Keith Graham

KEITH GRAHAM BSc (Hons), MCSP, is a Chartered Physiotherapist with an interest in musculoskeletal medicine and undergraduate education. Up until December 2006 he was working as Research Assistant to support research into peer-assisted learning in the undergraduate medical curriculum at the University of Glasgow.

Robert Matthew

ROBERT MATTHEW MSc, PhD, Eur. Ing., C.Eng., MIEI, ILTM is a Professor in the Learning and Teaching Centre at the University of Glasgow. His interests include enhancing student learning experiences through developing student autonomy. He has worked in this area with medical and paramedical professional as well as engineers.

Max Field

MAX FIELD BSc, MD, FRCP is a Reader in Rheumatology and Medical Education. He directs the final year curriculum at the University of Glasgow Medical School. He has research interest in Medical Education in Rheumatology and is Chair of the arc undergraduate education group.