Improving undergraduate education in surgical paediatrics using near-peer assisted learning tutorials.

Introduction: Near-peer assisted learning (NPAL) has been welcomed in recent years as a favourable method for teaching medical students. It has proven advantages for both the educator and the learner. As such it was identified as an ideal approach for delivering the local curriculum within a paediatric surgical setting. Short duration of placements further suggests that structured tutorials would best guarantee coverage of the student curriculum. Our hypothesis was that the introduction of a structured programme such as this could lead to reduced dependence on senior staff for teaching, increased exposure of junior staff as educators, and increased coverage of the curriculum.
Methods: Curriculum outcomes were identified, and a series of tutorials developed for delivery by juniors within the department. Pre and post intervention questionnaires were given to students rotating through the department.
Results: 70 responses were analysed (23 pre; 47 post intervention). Reliance on Consultant teaching dropped 29% and engagement of surgical, GP and foundation trainees in teaching increased by 29%, 43% and 9% respectively. Overall curriculum coverage increased by 12%.
Conclusion: A near-peer assisted tutorial programme is an effective way of increasing coverage of the medical curriculum with benefits for tutors and learners, whilst increasing junior engagement in teaching and reducing burden on Consultants.