A triangulated approach to the assessment of teaching in childhood epilepsy.

BACKGROUND: A comprehensive methodology is needed to assess student teaching. The present study employed a triangulated approach evaluating participant perceptions of learning, critical reflection by the lecturer and peer observation to measure confidence, interest and usefulness of the subject matter. METHODS: Using an interactive lecturing style, seven teaching sessions were delivered to medical students and junior doctors. Rating scales, open-ended questions and focus group discussions evaluated participant perceptions. Critical reflections and observations were made by the lecturer and independent learning consultants. RESULTS: Seventy per cent of participants rated the lecture on the highest scale for usefulness and interest. There was a significant post-lecture increase in clinical confidence in seizure identification (p < 0.0005). Open-ended questions showed that videos were most useful (81/149) and interesting (109/149), and that the presentation of the syndromal classification provided a useful approach (114/149). Focus group discussion, lecturer and peer observation cross-validated these findings and highlighted the importance of expert commentary to the videos and the clinical relevance of material.