Radiology teaching improves Anatomy scores for medical students

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate if small group teaching in Radiology impacted Anatomy scores in the summative end of year examination. Methods: Small group teaching in Radiology was incorporated into Anatomy of year one medical students during the academic years 2016/17 and 2017/18. Examination outcome for 2 years before and 1 year after the study period were compared. Question papers for end of year summative examinations were retrieved; questions relating to Anatomy were identified and anonymised scores for students were obtained. Results: Student numbers ranged 238 to 290/year. Mean Anatomy scores ranged 62–74%, this compared with mean total exam score of 62–65%. No significant difference in Anatomy and Total examination scores for 2015, 2016 and 2019. Mean (SD) Anatomy scores were significantly higher than the Total examination scores for the study period of 2017 and 2018 [68.97 (17.32) vs 63.12 (11.51) and 73.77 (17.85) vs 64.99 (10.31) (p < 0.001)]. Combined Anatomy scores 2017 and 2018 were significantly higher than 2015 and 2016, difference of 5.50 (95% C.I. 3.31–7.70; p < 0.001). Conclusion: This is the first study to objectively demonstrate Radiology small group teaching significantly improved Anatomy scores for medical students in the summative end of year examination. Advances in knowledge: No evidence in the literature that Radiology teaching improves examination outcomes for medical students. This is the first study to directly link Radiology teaching with improved Anatomy examination result. Small group teaching in Radiology is a feasible way to teach Anatomy.