Online Simulated Cases Assess Retention of Virtual Neighborhood Tour Curriculum

Background Learning to identify and address social determinants of health (SDH) is a crucial component of pediatric residency training. A virtual tour of an impoverished neighborhood previously demonstrated efficacy in increasing residents’ self-assessed knowledge and competence, but its impact on performance has not yet been reported. Online simulated cases are emerging as feasible assessment tools to measure trainees’ skills across various healthcare settings. We developed online simulated cases to evaluate residents’ retention of the virtual tour’s key SDH-related learning objectives 1 month after completing this curriculum. Methods Three online simulated cases with interpolated open-ended questions were created to assess residents’ ability to identify SDH, recommend appropriate resources, and display empathy. Scoring rubrics to objectively evaluate responses were developed and borderline scores were decided by a team of educators. Results 19 residents participated. Mean scores for all cases exceeded pre-established borderline scores (statistically significant in two of the three cases). More than 90% of residents identified relevant SDH in the primary care and emergency department cases. Ninety-five percent of residents recommended appropriate resources in all cases, and 89% displayed empathy. Discussion Residents’ performance in online simulated cases demonstrated retention and application of the virtual tour’s learning objectives, including recognizing SDH, offering appropriate resources, and displaying empathy, which supports the long-term effectiveness of the virtual tour curriculum to train pediatricians about SDH. Online simulated cases provided a standardized and cost-effective way to measure residents’ skills related to curricular uptake, suggesting that this assessment approach may be adapted to evaluate other educational interventions.