Instant Learning Isn't All It's Cracked Up to Be

Chad A. Krueger, MD; Matthew R. Schmitz, MD; Patrick M. Osborn, MD

Graduate medical education (GME) is far different today than it was 20 years ago. Societal, financial, and regulatory pressures—as well as a new generation of residents more focused on quality of life—have led to significant changes in how physicians learn. Although both residents and educators often discuss these influences on education, they frequently overlook today's resident learning style, in particular the impact of information overload and instant access to electronic media.