The structure and the development of an internal medicine clerkship designed to promote proficiency in the process of clinical reasoning is described. A "student ward" offers a structured environment where the emphasis is on in-depth clinical exposure and the acquisition of clinical knowledge. (Author/MLW)

A two-week elective to introduce medical students to primary care internal medicine was developed and evaluated. Course time is divided between conference sessions and office experience. Evaluations by students consisted of a questionnaire of conference topics, the student's ability to carry out course objectives, and the preceptor's teaching…

A series of workshops demonstrating technical skills and practical procedures in internal medicine was conducted for fourth-year medical students. The workshops provided the students the chance to observe and in some situations to perform the technical procedures under supervision before beginning their residencies. (Author/MLW)

The ways in which residents fulfill their teaching responsibilities were examined. First- and second-year internal medicine residents were observed as they reviewed cases during work rounds. The most frequently observed teaching behaviors were associated with patient care: providing a role model. (Author/MLW)

A 12-week primary care elective for third-year medical students at Boston University School of Medicine is described. Clinical sites at three Boston community health centers are coordinated to provide a longitudinal, integrated experience in ambulatory pediatrics and medicine. (Author/MLW)