Empowering medical students through collaborative writing sessions
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Date
11-13-2023
Journal
The clinical teacher
DOI
10.1111/tct.13687
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Scientific writing and critical appraisal of the literature are fundamental skills for future physicians. However, these skills have been inconsistently prioritised across medical curricula, leaving medical trainees to seek these skills through continuing education courses. APPROACH: We conducted a series of complementary collaborative writing sessions (introductory workshop with 3-month practical sessions) with direct supervision to medical trainees (medical students and recent medical graduates) in the Dominican Republic between 2017 and 2020. We also examined medical trainees' perceptions of these collaborative writing sessions, as a mechanism to advance technical writing and critical analysis skills for their professional training and personal growth. EVALUATION: Participants described the perceived enabling factors of the collaborative writing sessions that led to their publications as: (1) detailed agenda; (2) direct mentorship; (3) effective teamwork; (4) personal investment and dedication; and (5) future vision. IMPLICATIONS: These collaborative writing sessions, consisting of a viable agenda and timeline, direct mentorship with timely feedback, and team dynamics, are recognised as an innovative model for medical trainees in the Dominican Republic. This academic model and approach can be adapted to meet the specific needs of health professional students across the globe. By mastering these fundamental written communication skills, medical trainees can contribute to research and policy development, lead health education initiatives, advocate for best clinical practices in patient care, and mentor the next generation of trainees.
APA Citation
Chapman, Helena J. and Veras-Estévez, Bienvenido A., "Empowering medical students through collaborative writing sessions" (2023). GW Authored Works. Paper 3814.
https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/gwhpubs/3814
Department
Environmental and Occupational Health