A picture is worth a thousand words - Practical use of videotape in teaching

Videotapes, through vividly displayed clinical images and teaching interact ions, an valuable tools for both learners and teachers. Visual images in co mbination with verbal instruction have been shown to significantly increase recall and retention. Many clinicians and medical teachers are aware of vi deotape resources, but have not had a chance to develop their use in medica l education. In this paper, we discuss creative applications of videotapes in three major categories: presenting information, triggering discussion, a nd as a tool for direct self-observation and feedback. Videotapes may be va luable for presenting information in settings of didactic instruction; for triggering discussion during teaching workshops; and for self-observation o f patient-doctor interactions and learner-teacher encounters, The article p resents learner-centered approaches to review a videotaped clinical encount er in order to enhance value and comfort for the learner and teacher. Sourc es of tapes include on-site videotaping, published educational tapes and co mmercial tapes shown in accordance with fair use guidelines, examples of wh ich are referenced. Videotapes add another dimension to traditional sources of physician education.