[Art in undergraduate medical education]

Abstract

Background: During the last decades attempts have been made at integrating art in medical education. What should be the form, content and objectives of such teaching?

Material and method: We address this question on the basis of a review of articles in medical journals from 1990 until May 2001 about art and undergraduate medical education.

Results and interpretation: A common reason for integrating art in undergraduate medical education is that art may act as a balance to the dominance of natural science. One pedagogical approach is to use art as a tool for training skills. Many articles emphasise that teaching art should also contribute to the personal and professional development of medical students. The majority of articles report on courses in literature and medicine. Art is often taught in small or medium-sized groups; courses may last from single lessons to programmes over years. The aim of art courses may be the development of skills, but also one of facilitating personal growth and professional development.