Patients and Sciences - Course 4 16 Credits/Maximum of 16

Catalog description

PS-4 is a 20 week course offered in the Summer/Fall semester of the third year in the University Park Curriculum (UPC). Successful completion of this course is required for progression through the UPC. The focus of the course is to elaborate and extend medical student learning, following their clinical clerkship year, in foundational science as it relates and applies to the practice of evidence-based medicine. Consistent with the educational philosophy and mission of the University Park Curriculum, the course centers on clinical cases and problems that provide the basis for discussing core concepts. Students will actively participate in the discussions and use their skills at information gathering and peer teaching to engage the material and topics. Faculty facilitation ensures that key areas and ideas are organized, discussed and elaborated to maximize student learning and concept integration. While PS-4 provides content included in the board exam, it is not intended to be a board preparatory course. The focus of PS-4 is on foundational science concepts and knowledge to inform medical practice and support lifelong learning. The course builds on authentic clinical patient cases published in the medical literature. Two to three cases provide the context for learning each week. Cases are selected based on core concepts in foundational sciences (Aquifer Science Initiative) and the College of Medicine Core Curriculum. Learning objectives are developed in foundational sciences, with an emphasis on Biochemistry, Neuroscience, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Pathology, Immunology, Pharmacology, and Anatomy. This framework ensures coverage of a broad set of conceptual topics grounded in the selected case studies. Eberly College of Science and Hershey-based College of Medicine faculty serve as content expert discussants. Where possible, cases draw from student experience. Relevant background readings, video, or other web-based instructional material are provided in key topic areas to supplement student-driven research. Laboratory sessions in anatomy are also provided. In addition to the classroom work, all students will continue clinical responsibilities in a continuity practice of their choosing. One average, this experience will occur 1/2 day week. This course is Pass/Fail. Students will be provided with ongoing formative feedback including facilitator and peer feedback and customized NBME MCQ testing (Step 1 Bank) provided in a progress test format. Summative essay examinations will be administered at the mid-point and at the end of the course.