Invited article: Neurology education research.
BACKGROUND
There is a need to rigorously study the neurologic education of medical students, neurology residents, and neurologists to determine the effectiveness of our educational efforts.


METHODS
We review the status of neurologic education research as it pertains to the groups of interest.


RESULTS
We identify opportunities and impediments for education research. The introduction of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education core competencies, the Accreditation Council of Continuing Medical Education requirement to link continuing medical education to improved physician behavior and patient care, and the American Board of Medical Specialties/American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology-mandated maintenance of certification program represent research opportunities. Challenges include numerous methodologic issues such as definition of the theoretical framework of the study, adequate sample size ascertainment, and securing research funding.


CONCLUSIONS
State-of-the-art education research will require multidisciplinary research teams and innovative funding strategies. The central goal of all concerned should be defining educational efforts that improve patient outcomes.
Stern
Barney J
BJ
Department of Neurology, 22 South Greene Street, N4W46, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA. bstern@som.umaryland.edu
Lowenstein
Daniel H
DH
Schuh
Lori A
LA
D004501:Education, Medical / Q000592:standards / Q000639:trends; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000592:standards / Q000639:trends; D004503:Education, Medical, Graduate / Q000592:standards / Q000639:trends; D004521:Educational Measurement / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D009462:Neurology / Q000193:education* / Q000592:standards / Q000639:trends; D012106:Research / Q000193:education* / Q000592:standards / Q000639:trends