The influence of narrated group discussions on the interpretational ability of medical students: a prospective observational study

Background: Clinical decision making is predominantly knowledge-based perception, interpretation under terms of uncertainty. It is unclear whether interpretational ability can be improved. We evaluated the effect of a narrated group-discussions course (NGDC) on the interpretational ability of first-year medical students. Objective: To evaluate the effect of our course on first year medical students in respect to: a) their interpretational abilities b) their attitude towards studying literature and the core subjects. Method: Using a pre-post questionnaire, of a semester-long course, among two consecutive classes, the authors evaluated the participant’s interpretational ability and depth of understanding when analyzing four complex passages. Results: Out of 235 students, 146 (62%) responded to both questionnaires. There was a significant increase in the participant’s interpretational ability (P=0.003). ninety one participants (38%) improved their level of understanding in at least one out of the four passages, and 37 participants (25%) improved in two passages. A multivariate analysis revealed that the improvement in the interpretational ability was associated with younger age (P=0.034, CI 95%=0.64-0.98, OR=0.79), positive pre-course attitude and motivation (P<0.001, CI 95%=1.43-3.05, OR=2.09), and lack of a prior literature background (P=0.064, CI 95%=0.17-1.05, OR=0.43). Conclusion: Our data suggests that NGDC may improve and refine interpretational ability. Further studies are required to establish the short- and long-term impact of this change and whether it can be translated into better clinical decision making.