Language
English
Publication Date
1-1-2026
Journal
MedEdPORTAL
DOI
10.15766/mep_2374-8265.11598
PMID
42094241
PMCID
PMC13139363
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
5-5-2026
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Post-print
Abstract
Introduction: We developed an innovative, active learning workshop to introduce foundations of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) physics and instrumentation. The workshop design aimed to reduce cognitive load and encourage learner-centered engagement through hands-on exploration that reinforces key principles and connects theory to practice.
Methods: First-year medical students participated in small-group, student-driven exercises to explore POCUS machine controls, transducers, and image acquisition skills. Each group was supported by a faculty member to guide activities and ensure accuracy. Students scanned pickles, hard-boiled eggs, and olives with pits; these items were selected for their low cost, sonographic characteristics, and recognizability. Later in the semester, students demonstrated image optimization skills as part of a formal assessment.
Results: Survey results suggest that the workshop enhanced understanding of ultrasound physics and its relationship to imaging acquisition. Of 231 students assessed, 97% (n = 223) were able to select the correct probe and 71% (n = 164) successfully optimized their images independently during the subsequent assessment.
Discussion: This interactive workshop provided learners with hands-on experience using familiar household objects to demonstrate the relationship between ultrasound physics, instrumentation, and image generation. Instruction emphasized principles of image formation rather than image interpretation, distinguishing it from patient-based workshops. This approach aims to promote more deliberate image acquisition throughout the curriculum and into clinical practice.
Keywords
Humans, Ultrasonography, Point-of-Care Systems, Problem-Based Learning, Education, Curriculum, Students, Medical, Physics, Education, Medical, Undergraduate, Educational Measurement, Surveys and Questionnaires, POCUS, Instrumentation, Assessment, Feedback, Ultrasound Skills, Workshop
Published Open-Access
yes
Recommended Citation
Tator, Cherie; Flores, Saul; Riley, Alan; et al., "Point-of-Care Ultrasound Foundations in Physics and Image Acquisition: An Innovative Hands-on Active Learning Workshop" (2026). Faculty, Staff and Students Publications. 7536.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/baylor_docs/7536