Computer-assisted curriculum for medical students on early diagnosis of substance abuse.

A computer-assisted curriculum on early diagnosis of substance abuse was developed for third-year medical students on their required family medicine rotation. Three computer-assisted instruction modules on early diagnosis, attitudes, and screening questionnaires were followed by two conferences: 1) a discussion and review session, and 2) a tutorial and role playing on engaging patients with substance abuse in treatment. Finally, students identified an ambulatory patient at risk for substance abuse and performed an evaluation. All 33 unselected students gave high ratings to all of the learning activities and the entire curriculum. Almost all were satisfied with the emphasis on substance abuse in their clerkship and expressed motivation to learn more. Student acceptance of teaching on substance abuse can be attained by a curriculum in which goals, objectives, and expectations are delineated clearly; in which the content is clinically relevant; which uses computer-assisted instruction, role playing, and a clinical exercise to stimulate problem-solving and skill development; in which conferences are discussion oriented; and for which pretests are used to promote learner receptivity.