A TEACHING PROGRAM IN COMMUNITY PEDIATRICS

AT THE School of Medicine of the University of Pittsburgh, the Department of Pediatrics has organized a series of field experiences intended to acquaint future physicians with programs and facilities outside the confines of the Medical Center which are concerned directly or indirectly with the health and welfare of normal and exceptional children. During their pediatric outpatient service, senior medical students in groups of six to eight spend 6 half-days in "community pediatric" training. Each student is loaned a collection of selected reprints, booklets and mimeographed material pertinent to the areas covered in the community experiences. They are urged to read the appropriate material before each field trip in order that their observations may be meaningful and productive. Additional preparation is given at the visit site by approximately an hour's group discussion of the general area to be covered, specific items to be noted, and questions to be considered during the experience. No attempt is made to cover all aspects of the program being viewed. Informal discussion and interpretation are maintained by the instructor throughout the field trip.