Constructive alignment for the integrated teaching of the examination of the ear

Otoscopy is an examination of high interdisciplinary relevance. Difficulties in handling and a flat learning curve are repeatedly noticed during teaching. At the University Medical Center in Göttingen, we developed a multimodal step-by-step concept to address this problem in our ENT curriculum. First of all, theoretical knowledge of ear anatomy as well as physiology and pathology are conveyed to the students in digital form. The students then acquire basic skills and practical knowledge in practical training supported by an otoscopy simulator. Building on this, the students carry out otoscopy and tuning fork examination alternately under medical supervision. The examination is then carried out on the patient with instruction and supervision. Further theoretical knowledge is deepened in seminars with interactive demonstrations of common pathologies and a practical course"Audiometry", in which the implementation and interpretation of common audiometric diagnostic procedures is demonstrated. Practical skills are deepened in further courses by demonstration and independent implementation of ear microscopy and endoscopy under medical supervision. Practical skills and theoretical knowledge are the finally checked in an OSCE (objective structured clinical examination) examination. Thanks to anonymous written feedback from the students, we are always able to adapt the concept to changing requirements at short notice.

Publication History

Article published online:
12 May 2023