Medical decision making (MDM) is a longitudinal learning experience throughout the four years of medical school, primarily concentrated in the first two years. MDM has been a long-standing anchor in the curriculum, teaching students the principles of evidence-based medicine and the skills necessary to be independent, critical readers of the medical literature in order to apply it to patient care. Throughout the first year of medical school, the curriculum is delivered through periodic large group sessions, followed by small group discussions for deeper practice and application. As learner needs evolve, this course also needs to evolve to remain relevant, authentic, and approachable. In the 2017-2018 academic year, the curriculum was reshaped to engage the student more deeply in the active learning process. By utilizing digital interactivity, the material now concurrently engages all students to actively connect with key concepts, definitions, and calculations. Rather than passively learn about core principles as though they are facts to be memorized, students construct sample research study designs to evaluate their components, strengths, and limitations. In this session, participants will experience the curriculum while simultaneously learning about the specific techniques and structure used to create effective sessions for the evolving learner.
