Novel, multimodal approach for basic transesophageal echocardiographic teaching.

OBJECTIVES Web and simulation technology may help in creating a transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) curriculum. The authors discuss the educational principles applied to developing and implementing a multimodal TEE curriculum. DESIGN AND SETTING The authors modified a pilot course based on principles for effective simulation-based education. Key curricular elements were consistent with principles for effective simulation-based education: (1) clear goals and carefully structured objectives, (2) conveniently accessed, graduated, longitudinal instruction, (3) a protected and optimal learning environment, (4) repetition of concepts and technical skills, (5) progressive expectations for understanding and skill development, (6) introduction of abnormalities after understanding of normal anatomy and probe manipulation is achieved, (7) live learning sessions that are customizable to meet learner needs and individualized proctoring in skill sessions, (8) use of multiple approaches to teaching, (9) regular and relevant feedback, and (10) application of performance and compliance measures. PARTICIPANTS Fifty-five learners participated in a curriculum with web-based modules, live teaching, and simulation practice between August 2011 and May 2013. CONCLUSION It is possible to develop and implement an integrated, multimodal TEE curriculum supported by educational theory. The authors will explore the transferability of this approach to intraoperative TEE on live patients.