The Problem

The one-way transfer of knowledge as traditionally provided by the Sage on the Stage …. did not necessarily improve during this Pandemic by the Well-intentioned professor on Zoom! (Speaking about myself and probably many others!)

This year many colleagues and I yearned for short interactive experiences that either allowed for application and interpretation of knowledge or knowledge checks that could be easily deployed, graded, and were carefully targeted to specific learning objectives.

The Answer

MiniSIMS: Short patient-based scenarios designed to help students apply and interpret learned knowledge in a simulated clinical environment. Typically 5-10 minutes long, and multiple-choice, matching-based items.

MicroLearning: Simple, short, and easily deployed. These mini-assessments help the students draw on the knowledge they have acquired and can be used as quizzes or exam preparation

An example of a MiniSIMS: Neuro MiniSIMS (on real patients)

• Timed Up and Go (Click here to try a Neuor MiniSIM)

• BERG balance test

• MOCHA

• Spasticity assessment

• Rigidity assessment

• Coordination Testing (dysmetria/dysdiadokokinesia)

• Modified Ashworth Scale

• Romberg and Sharpened Romberg

• Five times sit to stand

• 10-meter walk test

• 6-minute walk test

An example of a MicroLearning: Acute Care MicroLearning

• Identify Lines, Tubes, and Drainage

• Post-op Protocols and Contraindications

• Heart sounds

• Standard and Universal Precautions

• Bracing

• Lung sounds

• EKG

• Medical terminology and abbreviations