Effectiveness of an online curriculum for medical students on genetics, genetic testing and counseling

Abstract

Background: It is increasingly important that physicians have a thorough understanding of the basic science of human genetics and the ethical, legal and social implications (ELSI) associated with genetic testing and counseling.

Methods: The authors developed a series of web-based courses for medical students on these topics. The course modules are interactive, emphasize clinical case studies, and can easily be incorporated into existing medical school curricula.

Results: Results of a 'real world' effectiveness trial indicate that the courses have a statistically significant effect on knowledge, attitude, intended behavior and self-efficacy related to genetic testing (p<0.001; N varies between 163 and 596 for each course).

Conclusions: The results indicate that this curriculum is an effective tool for educating medical students on the ELSI associated with genetic testing and for promoting positive changes in students' confidence, counseling attitudes and behaviors.

Keywords: ELSI; genetics; medical school curriculum; online education.

Fig. 1.

Representative screenshot from the ‘Prenatal Genetic Testing’ course module. This screen shows examples of several features of the instructional courses (arrows). Definitions for important terms are provided as ‘pop-up’ windows when the learner moves the mouse over the term. Interactive quizzes are included and provide feedback for both correct and incorrect answers. Additional resources and information are provided in lists with links along the side of each screen.

Fig. 2.

Screenshot from the ‘Pediatrics: a family study of a child with multiple congenital anomalies’ course module. This screenshot shows a medical history and pedigree work up, which would take place during an appointment with a genetic counselor.