2025 American Academy of Neurology Abstract Website

Objective:

To improve electroencephalogram (EEG) education by implementing spaced repetition of high-yield findings into our adult neurology residency curriculum.

Background:

EEG is the single most important tool in the field of epilepsy. However, exposure and training during residency can be limited and not standardized across programs. Recent studies estimate that almost half of graduating neurology residents do not feel they have reached Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) milestones on the ability to read EEG. Here, we present an innovative approach to improve EEG education using spaced repetition of common normal and abnormal patterns.

Design/Methods:

Adult neurology residents from all post-graduate years (PGY) were invited to participate. A survey and multiple-choice assessment consisting of 20 EEG findings were conducted prior to curriculum implementation. With an experienced epileptologist, 48 normal, normal variant, abnormal, and artefactual EEG waveforms were selected and incorporated into a spaced repetition studying computer program. Following each noon conference, 3 slides was shown and algorithm-based repetition intervals were assigned by the program to determine the next study date. Both survey and assessment were repeated after 6 months.

Results:

Pre-curricular data from all PGY-levels within our single-center adult neurology residency program (N=14) showed that <30% of our neurology residents felt comfortable recognizing normal or artifactual, and <10% felt comfortable recognizing abnormal EEGs. Fewer than 15% would base therapeutic decisions on their own reading. On the assessment, only 7.9±3.2 (39.3±15.9%) questions were scored correctly. The majority (57%) believed lack of exposure posed the greatest challenge in EEG education and favored repetition of common normal and abnormal EEGs as the most efficient way to learn (50%), followed by reading more patient recordings (36%).

Conclusions:

Our data suggests that our current resident EEG education needs improvement. Implementation of spaced repetition of high-yield findings might be an effective way of standardization. Post curricular intervention data is forthcoming.