- Evaluate neurophysiology education in our residency

 - Develop an engaging teaching method to stimulate interest in neurophysiology and facilitate learning

Training during residency on electroencephalography (EEG), electromyography (EMG), and evoked potentials (EPs) varies significantly in quality and quantity across different programs.  Common barriers to learning include exposure during residency, lack of dedicated teaching, and resident burnout.  We sought to improve teaching in our program by getting our residents' perspectives on issues with didactics and neurophysiology teaching delivery.  Based on the responses, we devised a series of interactive quizzes based on EEG, EMG and EP topics, aiming to stimulate active learning and make a positive impact on neurophysiology teaching.    

A survey was designed to evaluate the current residents' perceptions of neurophysiology teaching.  Questions included confidence with EEG/EMG interpretation, barriers to learning, and improvement ideas.  Several changes to the program were implemented, including the introduction of a regular quiz with examples of Neurophysiologic studies.  The residents were surveyed again later in the year for feedback.

There were 11 responses to the first survey.  About half of respondents felt "not so confident" with interpretation of EEG/EMG and were "not at all familiar" with EPs.  64% felt that neurophysiology teaching in our program was only "moderately sufficient", with issues including lack of dedicated teaching and insufficient hands-on experience.

Following the introduction of the quizzes, 80% reported a positive impact on physiology teaching. 60% felt their knowledge of EEG interpretation and peripheral anatomy improved.

Our residents found the quizzes to be fun and engaging, and confidence in study interpretation has improved.  Barriers to learning remain, but overall the residents have felt that neurophysiology teaching has improved significantly.  This project demonstrates that teaching "dry" topics that residents struggle with can be made more enjoyable for both the teacher and the learner.