Experiential learning program for premedical students in collaboration with Shriners Hospitals for Children

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Authors
Cherry, Charles
Advisor
Wessel, Roger D.
Issue Date
2011-07-21
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (M.A.)
Department
Department of Educational Studies
Other Identifiers
Abstract

The purpose of this creative project was to develop a voluntary, experiential learning program for premedical students within Shriners Hospitals for Children. The program was formed to allow premedical students to gain tangible patient experience within a clinical setting to supplement the educational foundation they develop within the premedical curriculum. The objective of this creative project was to connect premedical students with professional development opportunities within a philanthropic hospital during their undergraduate coursework. While premedical curricula are created to develop a strong foundation of biological knowledge prior to the student being admitted to a professional medical school, they often focus entirely on the classroom experience without affording students the opportunity to gain clinical experience. By providing premedical students immersive, experiential learning opportunities which relate directly to their classroom experience, the students can obtain a deeper understanding of their subject matter while gaining hands-on experience in their area of interest