Workshop B

Deconstructing Concepts of “Professionalism” to Foster an Inclusive Medical Education Experience

Kimberly M. Zayhowski, MS, CGC, and Lillian Sosa, MS, CGC

Genetic Counseling Program, Graduate Medical Sciences, and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine

Room L-206

This workshop endeavors to critically examine the hidden curriculum entrenched within medical education, spotlighting the repercussions of conventional ideals of professionalism, often rooted in white supremacy, on learner experiences. Through the lens of inclusivity, we endeavor to redefine professionalism, aspiring to foster environments conducive to the comprehensive growth of healthcare professionals.

Target Audience:

Medical educators, curriculum developers, healthcare professionals, and administrators interested in promoting inclusivity and reimagining professionalism in medical education

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this workshop, learners will be able to:

  • Define the explicit and implicit principles of professionalism in healthcare and higher education.
  • Explore the historical context and evolution of professionalism in medical education.
  • Contrast traditional frameworks of professionalism with contemporary principles of inclusivity, diversity, and equity.
  • Apply concepts of the hidden curriculum, identity consciousness, and inclusive pedagogy to analyze case scenarios in medical education.
  • Identify instances of the hidden curriculum in participants’ educational environments.
  • Collaborate with peers to develop actionable strategies for fostering inclusivity and reimagining professionalism in medical education.

Session Outline:

  • Introduction to workshop and overview of objectives (10 minutes)
  • Presentation on the historical roots and current standards of professionalism in medical education (15 minutes)
  • Discussion on the hidden curriculum and its implications for learner experiences (10 minutes)
  • Exploration of case scenarios applying inclusive pedagogy and identity consciousness (20 minutes)
  • Identification of hidden curriculum manifestations in participants’ educational environments (10 minutes)
  • Collaboration to develop strategies for promoting inclusivity and reimagining professionalism in medical education (25 minutes)

Hands-On and/or Group Work: Participants will engage in group discussions, case analyses, and collaborative activities aimed at applying concepts discussed during the workshop. Through interactive exercises, participants will have the opportunity to share insights, exchange ideas, and collectively develop actionable strategies for fostering an inclusive learning environment in medical education.

This workshop was previously presented at Genetic Counselor Educators Association on July 21, 2023.