The integration of active learning teaching strategies into a radiology rotation for medical students improves radiological interpretation skills and attitudes towards radiology

Abstract Purpose In recent years, there has been increased recognition of the benefits of teaching by active learning. However, there is a paucity of experimental studies utilizing active learning in undergraduate radiology rotations, which is traditionally a passive learning experience. We designed a new radiology rotation that integrated teaching by active learning. We prospectively examined the efficacy of this new rotation compared to our standard rotation in terms of students' radiological competency and attitudes towards radiology, as well as impact on departmental efficiency. Methods This was a prospective cohort study involving fourth year medical students completing a one-week radiology rotation at our department between January and April 2018. One cohort completed a rotational model which incorporated active learning sessions (integrated cohort) while the remainder were taught using traditional passive learning methods (standard cohort). All participants completed a radiology examination before and after the rotation and were surveyed on their attitudes towards radiology. Results 105 students enrolled in the study. The mean post-rotation competency score obtained by the integrated cohort was significantly higher than that obtained by the standard cohort (82% versus 62%; p Conclusion The integration of active learning sessions into an undergraduate radiology rotation results in an improvement in students' post-rotation radiological competency and attitudes towards radiology.