A Medical Interviewing Course: Objectives, Techniques, and Assessment
DAVID W. CLINE M.D.1, and
JUDITH N. GARRARD PH.D.2
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota Medical School, 412 Union St., S.E., Mayo Box 393, Mayo Memorial Building, Minneapolis, Minn. 55455
2 Medical School Curriculum Evaluator and Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Minnesota Medical School, 412 Union St., S.E., Mayo Box 393, Mayo Memorial Building, Minneapolis, Minn. 55455
The authors describe a course for teaching medical interviewing skills to medical students. Course components included a programmed manual, observing a skilled interviewer, role-playing exercises, programmed medical interviewing films, and interviewing patients. The majority of the course was conducted in a small-group setting during a one-week period. Student participation was emphasized in course planning and discussion groups and as learners and teachers. Students and instructors rated the course as above average to excellent. The students showed a significant learning gain in medical interviewing techniques.
