|
your path: Home > Education
> AGS students >
Bringing geriatrics into the curriculum need not be an "all or nothing"
affair. Generally, it is best to start small and build upon the activities
and interests that currently exist within the institution. Long-range
plans can include the integration of a geriatrics program into almost
every area of medical education. This approach is often easier to accomplish
than the development of separate courses on aging for the basic sciences.
Long-range plans can also include extracurricular activities which are
an expedient means of starting a geriatrics program for medical students.
In serving as role models, faculty provide guidance to students who are
interested in learning more about geriatrics. They can suggest reading
materials and helpful organizations and resources. Faculty can also bring
together students with similar interests to establish a geriatrics student
group. A student group can be a powerful tool in fostering interest in
geriatrics. Groups provide an outlet for creative energy and social interaction
as well as a means for students to explore topics of interest within geriatrics.
Faculty can guide students in planning activities and programs and are
an important element to group continuity and cohesiveness. Assisting a
student group generally requires a minimal time investment on the part
of the faculty member but it can be invaluable to the group's success.
Ideas for group activities are discussed at length in the following chapter,
"Student Activities."
Involving students in research is also a means of motivation. Due to
the high costs of medical education, many students work during their longer
breaks. Funded research involves students in geriatrics while they attend
to their financial needs. Some projects may result in a publication or
presentation of original research at a regional or national forum (see
appendix, "Aging Organizations"). For instance, each year at
the American Geriatrics Society's (AGS) annual meeting, the AGS, in conjunction
with the American Medical Student Association's Task Force on Aging, organizes
a program for the presentation of medical students' research papers, presentation
of the Edward Henderson Student Award, and a special reception for medical
students ( see appendix, "AGS Student Chapter Network" in the
section titled, "AGS Annual Meeting Student Day"). These can
be exhilarating experiences, heightening students' interest in geriatrics
and upgrading their medical research skills. The AGS also co-sponsors
summer research institutes with medical schools. For example, the summer
institute at Boston University provides practical and conceptual background
required to pursue research in geriatrics.
Recognizing the accomplishments of students helps to reinforce for them
the importance of their educational achievements. There is no question
that a high level of performance as a student has its own rewards in competing
for residencies and staff positions. However, providing recognition for
outstanding students in geriatrics formally honors the recipients as it
demonstrates the institution's commitment to geriatrics. Outstanding achievement
can be formally recognized in a number of ways including a plaque, cash
award, paid research, or job opportunity for a specified period of time.
Some pharmaceutical companies have community service awards which could
be used for awards in geriatrics. It may also be possible to find sources
of funding in the community. In general, presenting the award in a public
ceremony (such as an awards dinner or commencement) will have a greater
impact on the recipient and student body.
|
