MELA Moments

Teaching Technical Skills: Lessons from the Operating Room

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Laura Buchanan, an Assistant Professor of Surgery at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, about teaching procedural skills. Dr. Buchanan gives us strategies to enhance the learning experience for medical trainees by emphasizing the necessity of breaking down complex tasks into manageable micro-steps and the importance of aligning instructional methods with the nature of the skill being taught.

Unlocking Teachable Moments in Ambulatory Care

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400

On this episode, Dr. Erin Giudice talks with Dr. Danny Baek about finding the teachable moment in the ambulatory setting. Dr. Baek is the Program Director of the Internal Medicine Residency Program at the University of Maryland. As we delve into the intricacies of clinical teaching, we recognize that the ambulatory environment presents both unique challenges and rewarding opportunities for educators and learners alike. This episode emphasizes the importance of establishing effective communication and the need to navigate time constraints while fostering an enriching learning experience. Throughout our discussion, we explore practical strategies, such as the implementation of micro-teaching sessions and the thoughtful selection of patient cases, which can significantly enhance the educational experience for trainees.

From Vague to Valuable: Strategies for Narrative Assessment

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Today, we delve into the critical subject of narrative assessment, a pivotal component for those engaged in the evaluation of learners. This episode features Dr. Nidhi Goel, who helps us understand the significance of employing a structured evaluative framework to enhance the efficacy of narrative assessments. We explore the inadequacies of traditional assessment methods and the advantages of competency-based evaluations, particularly in clinical settings. Throughout our discussion, we will highlight the importance of specificity and objectivity in feedback, as well as the necessity of addressing potential biases that may inadvertently influence assessments.

Enhancing Educator Effectiveness: The Importance of Setting Expectations

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0400

On this episode, our host, Dr. Erin Giudice, talks with Dr. Phil Dittmar about the critical significance of setting clear expectations for medical learners to enhance their educational experiences. They discuss the profound impact that well-articulated expectations have on learners’ performance, particularly in clinical settings. Dr. Dittmar emphasizes that these written guidelines not only demystify the parameters of successful performance but also mitigate learner anxiety, thereby fostering a conducive environment for self-directed learning. Join us as we delve into practical strategies and insights designed to optimize the educational journey for both learners and educators alike.

Mastering the Art of Effective Feedback

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 15:34:00 -0400

On this episode, our host, Dr. Erin Giudice, talks with Dr. Kate Donohue about how to give effective feedback to learners. They speak about the various challenges educators face when delivering feedback and elucidate strategies to surmount these obstacles, thereby fostering a growth-oriented environment. Dr. Donohue emphasizes the necessity of setting clear expectations as a precursor to meaningful feedback, as well as the significance of establishing a constructive feedback culture. By integrating these principles, we aim to enhance the educational experience and performance of our learners, ultimately contributing to their professional growth.