Introducing educational interventions for first year medical students in the area of cancer clinical trials: impact on attitudes and confidence.
BACKGROUND
This study tested the feasibility and efficacy of a multi-faceted educational intervention designed to increase medical students' confidence in discussing cancer clinical trials with patients.


METHODS
First year students were provided with written resources, problem-based learning scenarios, and an optional practicum.


RESULTS
Pre/Post results indicated significant increases in confidence levels; however, these results were tempered with declines in attitudes related to clinical trials.


CONCLUSIONS
Integrating clinical trials education into existing medical school curriculum is both feasible and desirable. This intervention was successful in increasing students' confidence levels in discussing clinical trials with patients and deserves continued study.
Mitschke
Diane B
DB
Arlington School of Social Work, University of Texas, Arlington, TX 76019, USA. dianemitschke@uta.edu
Kasuya
Richard T
RT
Cassel
Kevin
K
Barcia
Anthony M
AM
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002983:Clinical Competence; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D015331:Cohort Studies; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008495:Medical Oncology / Q000193:education*; D018794:Problem-Based Learning; D013337:Students, Medical / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*