Using Visual Thinking Strategies to Enhance Observation Skills

AbstractArt therapy and medical students (N = 45) participated in Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) to: (1) enhance observation skills, (2) examine interdisciplinary approaches to assessment, (3) determine VTS’ impact on awareness of implicit bias. Quantitative and qualitative questionnaires and a post-procedure reflective focus group evaluated participants’ baseline experiences and the perceived usefulness of VTS to influence observation and bias awareness. Qualitative data indicated VTS improved observation skills and enhanced awareness of implicit biases. Although the one statistically significant result questioned students’ continued interest in VTS, 3 non-significant items on quantitative measures reflected gains regarding VTS to improve communication with patients, and to aid in determining implicit biases within health fields. The significance of VTS for art therapy and medical education is its potential to increase awareness of cultural biases that could impact assessment skills.Keywords: Implicit biasassessmentart therapymedical humanitiesVisual Thinking Strategies Disclosure StatementNo potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.Additional informationFundingAmerican Association of Medical Colleges.Notes on contributorsHolly Feen-CalliganHolly Feen-Calligan, PhD, ATR-BC, is an associate professor and coordinator of the art therapy program, Wayne State University (WSU), Detroit, MI.Grace SerraGrace Serra, MA, is curator of the WSU art collection. Kelly Farrell earned an MA in Art Administration, and served as VTS project manager.Kelly FarrellGrace Serra, MA, is curator of the WSU art collection. Kelly Farrell earned an MA in Art Administration, and served as VTS project manager.Jennifer MendezJennifer Mendez, PhD, is Professor Emerita, Internal Medicine and Geriatrics in the School of Medicine’s Service-learning and Community Engagement, WSU.Elizabeth McQuillenElizabeth McQuillen, PhD, is Associate Professor (Teaching) of Technology, Information Systems and Analytics in the Ilitch School of Business, WSU.Ceara MurphyCeara Murphy, MA, is an art therapist and counselor at Arbor Hills Psychological Services.David AmponsahDavid Amponsah, MD, is assistant professor of Emergency Medicine, WSU, and director of Emergency Medicine Ultrasound Education and Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, MI.