Illuminating Shadows: The Power of Learning by Observing

“Shadowing” refers to the practice of a student following an instructor. Although the term implies less light, rather than more, shadowing as an instructional modality in medical education can illuminate, stimulate, and move students to emulate what they might otherwise never observe. In this Invited Commentary, the author reports on a teaching encounter in the office in which shadowing was the principal modality used. This modality is situated within the spectrum of approaches to learning—from experiential learning to passive learning. Based upon personal experience as both a teacher and learner, the author identifies the unique value of shadowing, including its value in influencing career choice.