A triangulated approach to the assessment of teaching in childhood epilepsy

Abstract

Background: A comprehensive methodology is needed to assess student teaching. The present study employed a triangulated approach evaluating participant perceptions of learning, critical reflection by the lecturer and peer observation to measure confidence, interest and usefulness of the subject matter.

Methods: Using an interactive lecturing style, seven teaching sessions were delivered to medical students and junior doctors. Rating scales, open-ended questions and focus group discussions evaluated participant perceptions. Critical reflections and observations were made by the lecturer and independent learning consultants.

Results: Seventy per cent of participants rated the lecture on the highest scale for usefulness and interest. There was a significant post-lecture increase in clinical confidence in seizure identification (p < 0.0005). Open-ended questions showed that videos were most useful (81/149) and interesting (109/149), and that the presentation of the syndromal classification provided a useful approach (114/149). Focus group discussion, lecturer and peer observation cross-validated these findings and highlighted the importance of expert commentary to the videos and the clinical relevance of material.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ann M. E. Bye

ANN M. E. BYE is a Senior Paediatric Neurologist at the Sydney Children's Hospital and Conjoint Associate Professor in the School of Women's and Children's Health at the University of New South Wales.

Anne M. Connolly

ANNE M. CONNOLLY is a Research Assistant with the School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales.

Clare Netherton

CLARE NETHERTON is a Lecturer in Higher Education with The Learning and Teaching Unit, University of New South Wales.

Peter Looker

PETER LOOKER is a Senior Lecturer in Higher Education with The Learning and Teaching Unit, University of New South Wales.

Annette Burgess

ANNETTE BURGESS is the Education Manager with the School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales.

Amy Lonergan

AMY LONERGAN is a Scientific Officer with Telemetry at the Sydney Children's Hospital.