Posted on Jan. 24: McMaster mini-medical school for armchair MDs

You can become a medical student, just for one night. Actually, you can become a medical student for seven nights in a new program for the public being offered at McMaster University.

On seven consecutive Wednesdays, beginning March 5, faculty members will give public seminars similar to those given the medical students, using the world-renowned McMaster approach of problem-based learning.

The concept of a mini-medical school for the public was developed in the U.S. and recent programs at McGill and University of Toronto have been sold-out events. At McMaster, the mini-medical school is being organized by a group of five third-year medical students.

Each evening will have two separate sessions on a common theme. The seminars will explore the scientific basis of topical medical issues followed by a question and answer session. The topics will include heart and lung disease, infectious diseases, aging and arthritis, genetics, cancer, depression, Canadian health care, and international health.

For example, one class on March 5, cracking the DNA code, explains what DNA is, how we can decode the information it contains, and learn how scientists and physicians use the genetic information to track down inherited traits, investigate illnesses, and even solve crimes.

Organizer Janine Davies says the group hopes the program will forge an important link between the medical school and the community.

Medical students are exposed to vast amounts of scientific information. “We want people to experience the thrill of cutting edge
research and understand how it applies to a medical problem,” says Janine.

The group plans to use the proceeds for a scholarship recognizing student research or community service.

Dean and vice-president, Health Sciences, John Kelton, fully supports the new student initiative.

“It's a wonderful opportunity for the community to study under some of McMaster's finest educators and researchers, and then
apply what they've learned in a problem based-learning approach.”

“At a time when third year students are extremely busy with clerkship training and residency interviews, it's a credit to their
commitment to the community and life-long learning, that they want to share their educational experience with others.”

Classes will run 7 to 9 p.m. in the Ewart Angus Centre, Room 1A1, of the McMaster University Medical Centre.

The cost is $125, or $75 for seniors, students and low-income earners.

Registration is available through the Mini-Med School Web site or by calling 905-525-9140, ext. 22671.