Using the SPIKES Model to Break Bad News in Medical Education
Author Information
Author(s): Lynnea M. Mills, Olle ten Cate, Christy Boscardin, Patricia S. O’Sullivan
Primary Institution: University of California, San Francisco
Hypothesis
Can the SPIKES model for breaking bad news in clinical settings be effectively translated to educational contexts for health professions learners?
Conclusion
The SPIKES model can serve as a useful framework for educators to communicate academic performance issues to learners.
Supporting Evidence
- The SPIKES model has been widely taught in clinical settings for breaking bad news.
- Educators often feel nervous about discussing poor performance with learners.
- Using analogies from clinical practice can help educators communicate effectively with learners.
Takeaway
When teachers need to tell students they didn't do well, using a model called SPIKES can help make those tough conversations easier and more effective.
Methodology
The authors reviewed literature on the SPIKES model and its application in educational settings, particularly focusing on how it can help educators communicate bad news to learners.
Potential Biases
There may be risks of pathologizing learners when applying clinical models to educational contexts.
Limitations
The study does not provide extensive data on how educators' experiences differ from clinicians in breaking bad news.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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