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Mobile Spaced Education in Surgical Education Settings and Specialties: A Scoping Review

  • SURGICAL EDUCATION (S. TISHERMAN, SECTION EDITOR)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Mobile computing devices provide an appealing platform to support the learning needs of busy medical students, surgery trainees, and professionals in practice. This report discusses the application of mobile spaced education in surgical specialties and highlights key findings to date across the surgical education continuum.

Recent Findings

Scoping review methods were used to identify all mobile spaced surgical education evaluation studies published through mid-February 2020. Among 31 eligible studies reviewed, mobile spaced education has been applied and evaluated in many general and subspecialty surgical settings covering a variety of topics. Most of the studies have been done in graduate medical education settings, whereas far fewer were identified in medical school or continuing medical education settings. The majority of studies reviewed showed significant improvements in medical knowledge and learner satisfaction with mobile spaced educational methods. Several studies also demonstrated improved clinical skills or behaviors.

Summary

Although practical research and practice considerations exist in implementing and evaluating mobile spaced education strategies, the multiple benefits identified in this review suggest a substantial return on investment.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA

    Carol R. Thrush, Tamara Osborn & Mary Katherine Kimbrough

  2. Department of Medical Humanities and Bioethics, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA

    Karina R. Clemmons

  3. Division of Academic Affairs, UAMS Library Education and Research Services, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA

    Susan C. Steelman

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Correspondence to Carol R. Thrush.

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Thrush, C.R., Clemmons, K.R., Steelman, S.C. et al. Mobile Spaced Education in Surgical Education Settings and Specialties: A Scoping Review. Curr Surg Rep 8, 5 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40137-020-00250-w

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