title: Child development and disability: competency-based clerkship.
abstract: The training of medical students in the subject of mental retardation is important in broadening the physician's role in dealing with chronic disability. A competency-based training model is presented which specifies competencies, achievement methods, and evaluation procedures for a clerkship. The focus for training is on developing practical skills and a positive orientation toward developmental problems. Evaluative measures for 12 students rotating through the clerkship showed positive knowledge and attitude changes. Competency-based training is recommended as a model for preparing physicians to serve as advocates and resources for persons with chronic conditions.
mesh_terms: D001290:Attitude; D002648:Child; D006233:Persons with Disabilities; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate; D004521:Educational Measurement; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability; D011231:Preceptorship