Communication skills training at the Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island.

Full Abstract

Communication skills are considered a core clinical skill in human medicine. Recognizing the importance of communication skills and addressing them in veterinary curricula, however, is just beginning. In the fall of 2003, the Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, markedly changed the way in which it approaches communication teaching. An intensive one-week elective rotation on client communication was offered in the senior year. This rotation made extensive use of experiential techniques through the use of role plays and videotaped real client interactions. A group of faculty and hospital staff members were trained as coaches to support students as they practiced their communication in various client scenarios. The skills taught were based on the Calgary-Cambridge Observation Guide, which outlines observable behaviors that contribute to effective medical communication. Student response to and feedback on the rotation have been very positive. As a result, the number of rotations given per year has been increased. Long-term plans include expanding communication skills teaching into other years of the DVM program and incorporating simulated clients into the teaching program. Challenges that lie ahead include the development of a fully integrated communication teaching program that spans the whole curriculum, addressing the ongoing need for the professional development of coaches, improving methods of student assessment, and recruiting/training a sufficient number of coaches.

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Author information

Author/s: Shaw, Darcy H (DH); Ihle, Sherri L (SL);

Affiliation: Department of Companion Animals, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Canada. dshaw(-atsign-)upei.ca

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article

Journal: Journal of veterinary medical education (J Vet Med Educ), published in Canada. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2006-; vol 33 (issue 1) : pp 100-4

Dates: Created 2006/06/12; Completed 2007/10/29;

PMID: 16767646, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 12/26/2008)

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Communication
Curriculum - standards; trends
Education, Veterinary - trends
Humans
Prince Edward Island

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