Is there an evidence-based approach to anesthesia education?

Education in anesthesiology offers a variety of unique forums. Examples include focused teaching in the operating room, bedside teaching in critical care settings, and simulations. Many approaches are used by educators with a wide range of effectiveness. Each training program creates its own combination of educational techniques designed to meet national standards. In addition, new and innovative curriculum, teaching skills and evaluative tools develop among individual teachers and within each program. Everyone benefits from cultivating and sharing educational techniques and assessment methods. Educators grow in their ability and effectiveness to teach through awareness and subsequent application of new skills. Developing effective teachers maintains quality in training, promotes interest and enthusiasm for academia, and provides role models for learners. Evidence-based approaches to education are increasing in anesthesiology. This chapter will discuss skills, techniques, and evaluative tools from the literature that illustrate evidence-based effectiveness and applications to anesthesiology.