Providing Pedagogy Education for Aspiring Instructors at Institutions Without Formal Pedagogy Curriculum or Undergraduate Populations

Mayo Clinic annually trains over 1,000 predoctoral students and postdoctoral research fellows in medicine and biomedical sciences. However, training opportunities are limited for those interested in teaching and mentoring undergraduates. Predoctoral students sought to provide practical, trainee-led, pedagogical learning opportunities. A survey sent to trainees regarding preferred pedagogy education format guided development of the Twin Talk. A Twin Talk is two sessions; first, a content expert discusses a pedagogical technique (Take-in), and second, volunteers practice the technique (Try-out). The success of each Twin Talk was evaluated via survey. Trainees preferred workshop-style pedagogy opportunities (N = 141 of 198 responses). Eighty-seven trainees have attended a Twin Talk, and 75% of Take-in attendees had a satisfactory understanding of the material. Trainees favored in-person expert presenters over videoconferencing. Modeling of the teaching technique was well-received (N = 9 of 10). In conclusion, Twin Talks show promise for trainee-led pedagogy experiences; however, Try-out participation has been limited. In-person expert presentations that utilize the technique are preferred at Take-in sessions. The Twin Talk will be refined to increase trainee participation in the Try-out sessions.