Recommended reading from Anne Taylor-Vaisey: Here are some abstracts for this series from Medical Teacher. I am also including links to the PubMed full records. Click on the links and you will see the MeSH terms, as well as Related Articles.
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Curry M, Smith L. Twelve tips for authoring on-line distance learning medical post-registration programmes. Med Teach 2005; 27(4):316-321.
Abstract: With innovation and creativity, almost anything can be delivered and assessed on-line. Successful on-line distance learning puts the needs of the learner first, and is characterized by the quality and clarity of learning and support materials, together with good tutorial and support networks. This in turn depends upon trained authors and implementation of relevant quality assured systems and processes. These pragmatic tips outline the main points, which should help prospective on-line developers and authors.
Ker JS, Dowie A, Dowell J, Dewar G, Dent JA, Ramsay J et al. Twelve tips for developing and maintaining a simulated patient bank. Med Teach 2005; 27(1):4-9.
Abstract: Simulated patients have become almost indispensable in the education and training of health care professionals. Their contribution to the creation of a safe, yet realistic, learner centred environment is invaluable. Their support in enabling learners at all stages of their professional careers to develop both competence and confidence through repeated practice helps to ensure that learning from real patients can be maximized. A simulated patient bank can enable tracking and training of simulated patients to be coordinated in an effective and efficient way both for patients and learners. This paper shares experiences of developing a simulated patient bank against the background of changes in health care delivery and education and training. Twelve tips to developing and maintaining a simulated patient bank have been identified. The tips focus on the needs of the simulated patient bank and ensure that training is at an appropriate level for the learners, patient care is not compromised and simulated patients feel they are valued members of the educational team.
Lockyer J, Ward R, Toews J. Twelve tips for effective short course design. Med Teach 2005; 27(5):392-395.
Abstract: Short courses are commonly used by physicians to stay up-to-date and acquire new skills for practice. Unfortunately, many short courses are not designed to maximize their impact on practice as they fail to acknowledge how people learn and change. Designers of effective short course planning should pay attention to writing outcomes based objectives; conducting needs assessments; determining the optimal content, resources, speakers and format; preparing ancillary materials (handouts and pre- and post-course assessments); and preparing speakers and evaluation. This paper discusses how each of the components of the curriculum design can be used to enhance the learning experience and obtain the desired course outcomes.
Smith L, Curry M. Twelve tips for supporting online distance learners on medical post-registration courses. Med Teach 2005; 27(5):396-400.
Abstract: There is an increased interest in online distance learning programmes targeted at medical professionals as they are often marketed as providing an ideal way to study due to the flexibility to access high quality materials anywhere, any time and any place. Traditionally, however, online distance learning programmes have low retention rates. Online distance learners are distinctive students who have more constraints than traditional face-to-face students such as time issues as many are working full-time and have family commitments. Lack of student support has been identified as a major factor in students dropping out of online distance learning courses. This article examines the characteristics of a good support system for online distance learning courses and provides practical advice on implementation from development through to evaluation.
Azer SA. Becoming a student in PBL course: twelve tips for successful group discussion. Med Teach 2004; 26(1):12-15.
Abstract: Problem-based learning (PBL) serves as an educational method to foster self-directed learning, integration across disciplines, small-group learning and decision-making strategies. The approach is student centred. During the discussion of a PBL case there are a number of important issues to be considered by students, such as keeping ground rules, knowing their roles, keeping group dynamics, becoming a purposeful learner, planning how to use tutors' feedback to enhance group discussion and boost student's learning skills, as well as striving to become a winning team. This paper provides 12 practical tips to PBL students to enhance their skills in discussing a case in their group.
Dent JA. Twelve tips for developing a clinical teaching programme in a day surgery unit. Med Teach 2003; 25(4):364-367.
Abstract: Healthcare policy in the UK is moving towards an expansion in day care services. As it becomes increasingly difficult to deliver clinical teaching to undergraduates in traditional inpatient venues, opportunities must be sought in ambulatory care. The proposed increased activity of day surgery units provides one such resource for the development of a structured clinical teaching programme. This paper highlights 12 tips for the preparation, delivery and evaluation of a clinical teaching programme in the day surgery unit. It describes the implications for staff and resources and indicates the educational opportunities that can be provided.
Howe A. Twelve tips for developing professional attitudes in training. Med Teach 2003; 25(5):485-487.
Abstract: This article is based on a workshop run at AMEE Lisbon, building on work from previous conferences and reported in Medical Teacher (Howe, 2002a). The 30 workshop participants were particularly asked to address the question 'What would you consider essential to include in a medical education curriculum that wishes to teach and assess professional development?'. This question was posed without further constraints, ie. regardless of whether undergraduate or postgraduate, the country or situation of the participant, and the type of setting in which they worked. Participants were invited to consider all aspects of the question, and no assumption was made about the need to reach a consensus. The workshop divided into two groups and shared ideas. This paper presents the main emergent points from discussion, for interest and further collaboration; the level of agreement was considerable, consistent with the peer reviewed literature (Howe, 2002b). The conclusions are therefore shared in the 'Twelve Tips' format as a pragmatic framework for those wishing to review their own curriculum with reference to professional development (PD) issues, or when setting up new opportunities.
Ramani S. Twelve tips to improve bedside teaching. Med Teach 2003; 25(2):112-115.
Abstract: Bedside teaching has long been considered the most effective method to teach clinical skills and communication skills. Despite this belief, the frequency of bedside rounds is decreasing and it is believed that this is a major factor causing a sharp decline in trainees' clinical skills. Several barriers appear to contribute to this lack of teaching at the bedside and have been discussed extensively in the literature. Concern about trainees' clinical skills has led organizations such as the American Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and the WHO Advisory Committee on Medical training to recommend that training programs should increase the frequency of bedside teaching in their clinical curricula. Although obstacles to bedside teaching are acknowledged, this article in the '12 tips' series is a detailed description of teaching strategies that could facilitate a return to the bedside for clinical teaching.
Henderson E, Berlin A, Freeman G, Fuller J. Twelve tips for promoting significant event analysis to enhance reflection in undergraduate medical students. Med Teach 2002; 24(2):121-124.
Abstract: The facilitation of reflection and development of reflective abilities are increasingly considered to be an important component of professional development (Eraut, 1994). It is known that students find the process of reflection difficult and that it does not come naturally to all, requiring a safe trusting environment in which students can develop with staff support (Woodward, 1998). The structured and deliberate review of significant events has been advocated as a useful way to encourage reflection (Brookfield, 1990). These tips are based on recent research, which revealed that students' difficulties with significant event analysis arise from a range of unforeseen emotional reactions or conflicts. We pass on our tips for minimizing these conflicts and enhancing the reflective and creative aspects of significant event analysis.
Howe A. Twelve tips for community-based medical education. Med Teach 2002; 24(1):9-12.
Abstract: Teaching and learning in primary care and community settings is now a very common aspect of most medical trainings, and there is a growing expertise and evidence base related to the contribution of primary care practice to the reform of medical education. This article in the '12 tips' series touches on both practical and political aspects of community-based medical education, addressing the context in which this contribution has developed, its impacts to date, and some core essentials of effective educational practice.
Montemayor LL. Twelve tips for the development of electronic study guides. Med Teach 2002; 24(5):473-478.
Abstract: With recent advances in technology, electronic study guides are becoming extraordinary management, learning and assessment tools in the teaching-learning process, replacing printed study guides. The educational advantages they offer are listed here. During the elaboration of an electronic study guide, there are important issues to consider, such as the student's capabilities in the use of electronic media, the type of software to be used, proper authorizations and accessibility, the inclusion of all information and links needed, as well as a clear explanation on the use of the software. This paper offers twelve useful tips for the development of electronic study guides.
Reeves S, Koppel I, Barr H, Freeth D, Hammick M. Twelve tips for undertaking a systematic review. Med Teach 2002; 24(4):358-363.
Abstract: The need to underpin health and education with a firm evidence base is of increasing significance. Systematic review offers an effective approach to critically assessing research in order to understand its overall impact on practice. Based on 5 years' experience undertaking systematic reviews of interprofessional education, this paper offers guidance for researchers and practitioners about to embark upon systematic review work.
Wadoodi A, Crosby JR. Twelve tips for peer-assisted learning: a classic concept revisited. Med Teach 2002; 24(3):241-244.
Abstract: Peer-assisted learning (PAL) is a useful learning method. PAL is learning through active help of peer group members. PAL is increasingly being used in medical education although documented experience to date is limited. A PAL programme has been instigated and run by students at a Scottish medical school. The experience has resulted in the formulation of 12 tips to running PAL. These 12 tips cover organizational issues, tutor selection, training the tutor, and running and evaluating the sessions. It is hoped that these tips will be useful in the initiation and running of PAL programmes in other institutions.
Dent JA, Ker JS, Angell-Preece HM, Preece PE. Twelve tips for setting up an ambulatory care (outpatient) teaching centre. Med Teach 2001; 23(4):345-350.
Abstract: The ambulatory care setting is becoming an increasingly important environment for clinical teaching. This reflects the changing focus of healthcare delivery with more procedures and patient treatment being delivered in this setting. Maximizing learning opportunities for students without compromising patient care has never provided a greater challenge. This paper shares 12 educational tips for developing an ambulatory care teaching centre where both students and patients benefit from a protected yet realistic clinical setting.
Hartley S, Gill D, Walters K, Bryant P, Carter F. Twelve tips for potential distance learners. Med Teach 2001; 23(1):12-15.
Abstract: Distance learning courses are becoming popular among medical professionals due to their flexibility, allowing minimal disruption to personal and professional commitments. The ability to continue professional duties, allied to the reduced cost of distance learning courses, also makes them attractive to institutions looking to develop the skills of their staff. However the nature of distance learning courses means that they are often of long duration and many students fail to maintain motivation while working in isolation. This is reflected by high non-completion rates. This article outlines issues that all students planning a distance learning course should consider, relating to choice of course, time management, funding and adjusting to the different nature of distance learning. The authors advise developing a support network for distance learning students, either in person or electronically, to increase motivation and completion.
Toohey S, Watson E. Twelve tips on choosing Web teaching software. Med Teach 2001; 23(6):552-555.
Abstract: Experimentation with the new technology of web-based teaching has meant that many medical schools are using more than one software system for delivery. In the medical faculty at the University of New South Wales at the end of 1999, three different software packages (WebTeach, Top Class and Learning Space) were used for mediating teaching and learning on the web. The type of applications for which web-based teaching is used also varied widely. They ranged from a distance-education coursework masters programme delivered via the web, to the provision of additional resource materials and case discussions to supplement undergraduate classes on campus. Once web-based teaching moves out of the experimental phase and into the mainstream there is usually pressure to standardize on one software system. This has the advantage of limiting costs for training and support but it may require some compromise on functionality. Faced with the need to limit the number of software packages in use at UNSW the published comparisons of web software (Landon, 2001; University of California at Berkeley; 2001; Marshall University, 2001; Murdoch University, 2001) were first investigated. These show in broad terms what each package will do but often lack sufficient detail to determine whether the package will meet specific requirements. To get a better idea of how different software packages operate under the pressure of day-to-day teaching, 15 academic course coordinators, instructional designers and educational developers from six Australian universities who are involved in designing and delivering web courses were interviewed. The authors also joined online user groups and asked questions of international users. The aim was to find out what strengths and weaknesses they had found in the packages they used and whether they would make the same choice again. The authors were particularly interested to find out what questions they would ask when considering a new package. The twelve tips that follow summarize their advice to those considering the choice of a web teaching package.
Steinert Y. Twelve tips for using role-plays in clinical teaching. Med Teach 1993; 15(4):283-291.
Steinert Y. Twelve tips for using videotape reviews for feedback on clinical performance. Med Teach 1993; 15(2-3):131-139.
Harden RM. Twelve tips to encourage better teaching. Med Teach 1992; 14(1):5-9.
Steinert Y. Twelve tips for conducting effective workshops. Med Teach 1992; 14(2-3):127-131.
Harden RM. Twelve tips on using double slide projection. Med Teach 1991; 13(4):267-271.
Abstract: Double slide projection is not a technique that everyone will choose to use. It is a technique, however, which does offer the lecturer a number of advantages and it is not difficult to implement in the average lecture theatre. Careful consideration, however, must be given to the use to which the two projection system is to be put. In this paper 12 tips are given in the use of double slide projection and 10 possible uses for double slide projection are described. Three ways in which the lecturer can control the slide changes are presented.
MacLean I. Twelve tips on providing handouts. Med Teach 1991; 13(1):7-12.
Harden RM. Twelve tips for organizing an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). Med Teach 1990; 12(3-4):259-264.
McAleer S. Twelve tips for using statistics. Med Teach 1990; 12(2):127-130.
Biggs JS. Meetings: twelve tips for chairing a new committee. Med Teach 1989; 11(1):47-50.
Laidlaw JM. Twelve tips for designing instructional text using desktop publishing. Med Teach 1989; 11(2):139-143.
Laidlaw JM. Twelve tips for lecturers. Med Teach 1988; 10(1):13-17.
Laidlaw JM. Exhibitions: twelve tips for exhibitors. Med Teach 1988; 10(2):133-137.
Leiper JM. Twelve tips for using a public address system. Med Teach 1988; 10(3-4):273-276.
Laidlaw JM. Twelve tips on preparing 35 mm slides. Med Teach 1987; 9(4):389-393.
