PURPOSE
There is a definitive shift in higher education from traditional,
teacher-centered didactic lectures toward student-centered active learning.
Medical educators face the challenge of teaching Millennial and Generation Z
learners who demonstrate shorter attention spans, a preference for rapid
feedback, and strong expectations for interactive, collaborative, and
technology-enhanced learning environments. To align instructional practice
with these evolving learner characteristics while maintaining the rigor of
complex biomedical content, educators must employ a diversified teaching
toolkit that supports participation, accountability, and a sense of classroom
community. This presentation aims to provide actionable strategies to enhance
engagement and comprehension in pre-clerkship medical education and will
examine the impact of these tools on learner participation and perceived
educational benefit.
METHODS
Multiple technology-based strategies were implemented, including real-time
iPad annotation to enhance visual emphasis and spontaneous clarification
during lectures, PollEverywhere for immediate low-stakes assessment and
feedback, H5P modules providing self-paced interactive practice across
diverse content types, and AI-supported resources to reinforce foundational
knowledge. Student perceptions were gathered through narrative course
evaluations and unsolicited feedback.
RESULTS
Learners reported increased attention, improved real-time understanding,
and greater awareness of learning gaps. iPad annotation supported clearer
visualization of complex structures, while polling facilitated retrieval
practice and same-day reinforcement. H5P modules extended engagement outside
the classroom and were frequently described as helpful for identifying
strengths and weaknesses. Students consistently expressed a desire for
broader use of these technologies across courses.
CONCLUSIONS
Integrating educational technologies into foundational medical science
teaching enhances student participation, supports multimodal learning, and
provides timely feedback that strengthens comprehension. These tools offer
scalable, practical approaches that align with modern learner expectations
and can improve instructional effectiveness across health-professions
curricula.