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Teaching Medical Students

Medical student training is the first step in the continuum of genetics education and this section is for those who teach genetics to medical students.

The learning outcomes in genetics, that describe what genetics to teach to medical students, were developed through a consensus process with UK medical school genetics teaching leads, and endorsed by the Joint Committee on Medical Genetics in October 2006.

There are six broad learning outcomes with more specific outcomes listed under each. These learning outcomes emphasise core concepts in genetics and lay the foundation for later training in genetics in clinical practice. The broad learning outcomes are shown below. For the more specific outcomes download the learning outcomes in genetics for medical students.

  1. Understand and describe the mechanisms that underpin human inheritance
  2. Have an understanding of the role of genetic factors in health and disease
  3. Be able to identify patients with, or at risk of, a genetic condition
  4. Be able to communicate genetic information in an understandable, non-directive manner, being aware of the impact genetic information may have on an individual, family and society
  5. Be familial with the uses and limitations of genetic testing and the differences between testing and screening
  6. Know how to obtain current information about scientific and clinical applications of genetics, particularly from specialised genetics services

A medical school genetics teaching leads network has been established to support those teaching genetics to medical students. This is restricted to those teaching in UK medical schools. To enquire about eligibility, or to register, please contact Michelle Bishop, Education Officer (michelle.bishop@geneticseducation.nhs.uk).

Resources useful for teaching these learning outcomes are available.

 

Last updated: 13 October 2011

Teaching Genetics