Learning about clinical trials: The Western multicentre, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial on the effect of caffeine on alertness and cardiovascular parameters

With an increased emphasis on evidence-based medicine, teaching epidemiology and biostatistics to medical students is becoming increasingly important. This article discusses the development and implementation of a procedure for demonstrating the principles of clinical trials to medical students. A practical group exercise was used instead of traditional, lecture-based teaching. The students were both investigators and subjects in a placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial involving caffeine. This trial is presented and discussed. In general, the students found the exercise to be an effective and enjoyable alternative to a traditional, didactic teaching session. Practical suggestions for educators who may be interested in using this approach in their own teaching are given.

Duke Scholars

Author Truls Ostbye Family Medicine and Community Health