Analysis of dermatology resident self-reported successful learning styles and implications for core competency curriculum development

Abstract

Background: There are different teaching styles for delivering competency-based curricula. The education literature suggests that learning is maximized when teaching is delivered in a style preferred by learners.

Aims: To determine if dermatology residents report learning style preferences aligned with adult learning.

Method: Dermatology residents attending an introductory cutaneous biology course completed a learning styles inventory assessing self-reported success in 35 active and passive learning activities. The 35 learning activities were ranked in order of preference by learners.

Results: Mean overall ratings for active learning activities were significantly higher than for passive learning activities (P = 0.002).

Conclusions: Trends in dermatology resident learning style preferences should be considered during program curriculum development. Programs should integrate a variety of curriculum delivery methods to accommodate various learning styles, with an emphasis on the active learning styles preferred by residents.

Funding

Nil.

Contributions

All authors participated in the study concept and design and reviewing and revising the manuscript. EJS, CV and SJR acquired the data and EJS, CV and BNM analyzed and interpreted the data.

Institutional ethics approval

None needed.

Potential conflict of interest

None.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Erik J. Stratman

ERIK J. STRATMAN, MD is a dermatologist and Director of the Division of Education at Marshfield Clinic and an Associate Dean, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin.

Curt A. Vogel

CURT A. VOGEL, MD, MPH is a dermatology resident at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He completed his first year of dermatology training at Marshfield Clinic as part of a combined residency program. He has a background in public health with an interest in dermatoepidemiology.

Samuel J. Reck

SAMUEL J. RECK, MD is a dermatology resident at Marshfield Clinic.

Bickol N. Mukesh

BICKOL N. MUKESH, PHD is a biostatistician at Marshfield Clinic Research Foundation.