New blog section on Medical Education by Dr. Nikita Joshi

Introduction of a new section on Medical Education

Sir William Osler, renowned physician and believer in bedside medical education, once stated:

“I desire no other epitaph…than the statement that I taught medical students in the wards, as I regard this as by far the most useful and important work I have been called upon to do.”

And with this quotation I would like to introduce a new segment to Academic Life in Emergency Medicine.  One of the most important job descriptions we have as physicians is to be a clinical instructor… while simultaneously running cardiac arrest codes, managing agitated altered mental status patients, and avoiding documentation errors.

It is a tremendous task, especially considering the multitasking, organizational, and time management skills that are already demanded of us.  However, the ED is the perfect setting to provide medical education at levels including medical students, residents, and junior faculty as well.

With this blog, I hope to discuss issues such as:

• Bedside teaching tips
• Relevant medical educational theories
• Small and large group lecturing tips
• Effective use of technology, such as iPads in providing medical education.  

This section will ideally provide a forum for discussion as a place to share ideas, concepts, and successes from other readers. Ultimately, I hope to excite passion for medical education and to provide practical ideas for teaching.

Additional reading:

• "Oslerisms" from Life in the Fast Lane medical education blog
• "William Osler - Biography" from Medical Archives at Johns Hopkins