MS4 Satisfaction with an Online Ultrasound Elective as an Alternative to Clinical Experience

Abstract

INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND: A fourth year (MS4) elective in OBGYN US has traditionally been offered as a month-long rotation. MS4 students shadow Maternal-Fetal Medicine physicians and enhance knowledge with clinical exposure. Historically, the rotation provides adequate understanding of US in pregnancy. However, the COVID pandemic forced clinical experience to be replaced with virtual learning. To ensure MS4 students still had an opportunity to learn about US in pregnancy, a virtual, online curriculum was created. Using Kern’s six-step approach to curriculum, we developed a month-long OBGYN US virtual experience to replace clinical interaction. It is unclear if this transition was associated with high MS4 satisfaction. STUDY OBJECTIVE/HYPOTHESIS: To determine if converting a traditional hands-on ultrasound (US) elective to an online course for MS4 students was associated with course satisfaction. METHODS: Kern’s six-step approach to curriculum building was utilized to create a virtual course in US for MS4 students. This online course was created in Canvas based on US Milestones in the Residency Training Program Consensus Report (Abuhamad 2018). Self-directed modules and quizzes were created and administered weekly. Additionally, a weekly hour-long session using Nearpod technology – an interactive online website – was utilized to enhance instruction. Students completed an anonymous survey on Qualtrics at the completion of the elective. Satisfaction on a Likert scale of 1-7 was reported. Descriptive analysis and ANOVA were used when appropriate with SPSS 27. RESULTS: Nine MS4 students completed the course from May-July, 2020. Satisfaction was high for the course overall (mean 6.11, SD 1.96). Nearpod lecture (6.89, 0.31), Canvas modules (6.7, 0.47), and weekly quizzes (6.78, 0.42) were all rated highly with no statistically significant difference between the methods of instruction. Formative feedback from participants found the course material and Nearpod highly engaging. More students were able to complete the virtual class (9) compared to historical attendance of one student per month (3). DISCUSSION: An online US elective was associated with high satisfaction from participants. The course served as an adequate substitute for participants during COVID restrictions and allowed for greater enrollment. Future directions include integrating this online module with in-person clinical experience.