The goal of the MECP is to inspire culturally humble educators, working towards creating just and inclusive educational environments using an evidence-based approach to instruction, in an inter-professional setting. Program learning objectives include developing one’s knowledge base on the science of learning and well-known conceptual frameworks in medical education; improving one’s teaching skills using evidence-based instructional methods; describing the elements of curriculum development and instructional design; building one’s toolbox of educational technology and other instructional design tools; gaining hands-on experience in medical education scholarship; and having access to mentorship for a career in academics and medical education.

Outcomes

  • Develop one’s knowledge base on the science of learning and well-known conceptual frameworks in medical education.
  • Improve one’s teaching skills using evidence-based instructional methods.
  • Describe the elements of curriculum development and instructional design.

Curriculum Overview

MECP seeks to recruit students interested in pursuing a career in medical education, improving their teaching skills, and/or contributing to curriculum development while in (med/PA/CRNA) school.

In 2020 - 21, the MECP class sessions will span approx. 6 months in length; students have additional time as needed to complete their capstone projects. Class sessions occur 1 to 2 times per month (scheduled based on students' academic schedules to avoid major exams/breaks for all programs) and last 2 hours each, typically in the evenings (6 - 8 p.m.); most sessions will be conducted in person given the instructional methods used, which are all interactive/active for participating students (this year, social distancing measures will be incorporated for all such sessions; remote connections will also be offered for students who can't attend in person).

Program content includes:

  • Adult learning principles and the science of learning
  • Instructional methods including interactive, large-group instruction, case-based instruction, small group facilitation, clinical skills coaching, and simulation-based instruction
  • Curriculum development including conducting needs assessments, creating learning objectives, selecting optimal instructional methods for one’s learning content, and assessment methods
  • Using technology to enhance instruction; and educational scholarship 

Requirements for completion of the program include:

  • Attend program sessions (missing no more than 2 sessions)
  • Complete all program assignments
  • Practice and receive feedback on teaching skills
  • Complete a medical education scholarship project (capstone project)

Value of the Program

The overarching goal of MECP is to improve students’ knowledge of the science of learning in order to improve their performance as educators. Other program goals and potential benefits include creating new learner-faculty collaborations to enhance the effectiveness of the Wake Forest University School of Medicine curriculum, creating opportunities for inter-professional collaboration among health professions students, and fostering student interest in pursuing a career in medical education.