Work

Visual thinking strategies enhance clinical observation skills in medical and nursing students: an experimental study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: Good observation skills are crucial for accurate diagnosis. We evaluated Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS), an art-based teaching method, on medical students' observation skills via randomized controlled trials with 92 undergraduates and 78 graduates. One group attended VTS sessions led by art teachers; the other received traditional nursing education. Post-course tests revealed VTS significantly improved clinical observation scores (F=23.49, p<0.01), with graduates outperforming undergraduates (F=56.58, p<0.01). A notable interaction between VTS and knowledge background was found (F=107.7, p<0.05). VTS, even outside art museums, effectively enhances medical students' observation skills through visual art training..

Source: Cogent Education

DOI: 10.1080/2331186x.2025.2542651

Authors: Yanying Chen, Jiahua Li, Xue Zeng, Junxiang Chen, Yuhui Wang, Zixie Chen

Institutions: Central South University, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Xiangya Hospital Central South University

Language: English

Topic: Clinical Reasoning and Diagnostic Skills

Subfield: Family Practice

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,165