The Skeleton Key Group: The Impact of Fellow-Led Education

Abstract BackgroundThe Skeleton Key Group (SKG) is an online collective of trainees working to generate free, open-access medical education (FOAMed) focusing on electrolyte disorders. Trainee created and edited materials include a case report supplemented by visual abstracts, tweetorials, and quizzes. MethodsThe group formed in September 2019, and members were continually added. In May 2020, anonymous surveys were sent to SKG members and readers to assess educational impact.ResultsMember response rate was 62.5% (n=20) with 13 nephrology fellows and 4 residents. 85% (n=17) of respondents reported improved medical knowledge, and 70-80% (n=14-16) noted improved manuscript construction. Members’ primary goal of joining was to learn (n=18), and 60% (n=12) met all and 30% (n=6) met some of their goals with similar rates among low-engagement members (n=10).Of the 130 audience responses, the majority were nephrology fellows (41, 32%) and residents (42, 32%). Case reports were considered high quality, scoring 91±15.5 (0, low to 100, high). Tweetorials were the most useful and reported utility increased compared to the case report as training level progressed. 79% (n=103) confirmed their educational experience was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and 90% (n=116) found the SKG an effective educational tool during this period.ConclusionsThe SKG is an innovative collaborative experience and valuable educational resource. Involvement led to positive changes in members’ reported medical knowledge and writing skills. Our data also reinforces the ability of FOAMed to cater to different learning styles and to complement traditional medical education specifically during periods of social distancing.