The focus of this module is on how clinical teachers can involve patients in teaching and learning situations while balancing the (sometimes) competing needs of both patients and trainees.

We begin by examining the wider clinical context of patient involvement and empowerment, and the ethical dimensions of involving patients in learning encounters, and go on to consider specific aspects of involving patients in clinical teaching. This module links closely with the modules Teaching clinical skills, Workplace-based assessment and Facilitating learning in the workplace.

By the end of the module you should have clarified your understanding of patient involvement in clinical teaching and some of the educational strategies, approaches and methods that can be used in the clinic and at the bedside, as well as some commonly used alternatives  to ‘real patients in real clinical situations’. You will be aware of some of the ethical and practical considerations to be taken into account and will also have an opportunity to apply the learning from the module to your own practice through carrying out activities and reflecting on these.

Before you start

Before you start the module we recommend that you spend a few minutes thinking about the following points and noting down some of your thoughts. If you are registered on the site, you can do this in the ‘reflections area’. Click on the ‘my area’ link at the top of the page to access your personal pages. Please note that you must be logged in to do this. Please also note that you will need to contribute to the ‘reflections area’ during the course of the module in order to complete and print out your certificate.