STRUCTURED PACKS FOR INDEPENDENT LEARNING IN THE COMMUNITY

A range of structured learning packs (SLIPS) has been developed for th ird-year medical students undertaking a community medicine firm at Kin g's College School of Medicine and Dentistry (KCSMD). The aim of the p acks is to provide materials for independent learning by students to c omplement teaching by general practice tutors. An approach to the deve lopment of this method of learning is described. A tutor working along side students designed, tested and revised exercises that were develop ed into learning packs. Tutors who piloted the packs found that they o ffered flexibility and versatility in a general practice setting. The active learning exercises were enjoyed by students, who particularly v alued tasks that fulfilled a genuine practice need. The packs allowed tutors and students to use their contact time more effectively by prom oting discussion of concepts and issues rather than basic clinical inf ormation. A formal evaluation programme is planned with the aim of ext ending use of the packs onto other clinical medical firms.