Community-Based Learning Program: A Unique Opportunity for PA Students

The University of Wisconsin-Madison PA Program's unique distance learning option is designed to extend PA education into medically underserved communities. Currently, this is the only PA program in the country to offer this opportunity. Distance students complete 90% of their education in their home communities over a three-year period. The first summer session (10 weeks) is completed on campus and allows them to work closely with faculty and campus classmates. Distance students return to campus twice each semester. Community mentors help to reduce isolation, provide professional role models, and act as supplementary resources to instruction. Students complete the clinical year on a full-time basis in preceptorships in or near their home communities.

The Health Sciences Learning Center housing medical school programs, including the PA program, opened in mid-2004. This state of the art building permits the technological capture and delivery of course content, and the dedicated staff continues to explore and encourage the application of emerging technologies.

While one (6%) distance education student is ethnically diverse, seven (39%) of the 18 students in the first six cohorts report educationally disadvantaged backgrounds and five (28%) students report being economically disadvantaged. Forty-four percent of the students were raised in medically underserved communities. Early analysis of grades and academic progress showed that distance students perform as well, or better, than campus students. All distance education graduates passed the NCCPA national board exam in their first attempt and 6 of the 7 students in the first three cohorts are employed in or near their home community.

We have developed a strong infrastructure for delivering our curriculum by distance. Our project is well organized and designed to address the needs of students, faculty, and all other involved parties. The Distance Education Oversight Committee meets weekly to monitor progress, make plans, and address concerns. Through a committed faculty and staff, strong community and university partners, incorporation of emerging technologies, and engaged students, we are meeting our goal of educating top quality health care providers committed to their home communities.