Overview on research in the field of medical education

Medical education is a relatively young field of research that has been characterized by many innovations over the last 20 years. The main topics were the preparation of students for their medical work and imparting of profound knowledge about scientific contexts in medicine. For a long time, the main focus was on learning the necessary knowledge and skills; however, this is no longer considered sufficient. In order to carry out the work as a physician well, other qualities are also necessary, such as communication, collaboration, professionalism, science and reflectivity. Worldwide these aspects are being increasingly integrated into the learning objectives of medical schools and residency programs. The structure of medical studies at many universities has also changed. So-called vertical integration strengthens the integration of theoretical preclinical training and the clinical phase. This means that in the preclinical phase training is more practice-oriented and in the clinical phase a more structured form of training takes place. In the first years of study, students are prepared for the clinical phase by discussing patient cases and practicing skills in simulation centers. In addition, the clinical working environment is increasingly used as a learning environment. Developments have also been made regarding examinations: in addition to knowledge and skills, students and residents are now also assessed regarding performance in practice. Using more realistic assessments, e.g., Objective Structured Clinical Examinations and Workplace-based Assessments, students are evaluated more on their actual performance in practice. By means of the Entrustable Professional Activities method, students are gradually given more responsibility in order to prepare them for their future tasks.