Touch-pad technology: Immediate feedback for resident educators in teenagereproductive health

Objective: To describe a program for residents in obstetrics and gynecology to design, research, and present an innovative teaching activity to second ary-school students in reproductive health. Methods: An interactive 3-hour assembly was held for 285 grade-9 and -10 st udents. Six residents chose topics that encompassed key areas in adolescent health (menstruation, contraception, risk-taking behaviors, sexuality, and sexually transmitted diseases [STDs]). Each gave an interactive presentati on designed to address issues identified through anonymous questions submit ted by the students in advance. Touch-pad technology was used throughout th e presentations to ascertain the students' knowledge about, and attitudes t oward, a range of reproductive health issues. Each resident participant com pleted a follow-up questionnaire. Results: Touch-pads provided a unique format, allowing teens to respond can didly to sensitive topics anonymously while providing important feedback to resident educators to help them focus their presentations and address area s of greatest need. Resident participants reported that by preparing these presentations, they honed their knowledge about contraception, STDs, and te en sexuality; identified important community resources for teens; and were sensitized to issues unique to teen sexual-health counseling. Conclusion: This project provided an opportunity for residents to improve t heir knowledge of teenage sexuality and to develop skills as teachers, whil e forging a valuable Link between the community and the university. (C) 199 9 by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.