SciTrunk - Navigating U-M Medical School Year 1

Michigan Medical School

Problem

Year 1 of the University of Michigan Medical School curriculum, known as the “Scientific Trunk,” builds a strong foundation in biomedical science while integrating early clinical experiences through patient interactions, teamwork, and skills development. The curriculum combines foundational science blocks with organ-system based learning in a pass/fail structure designed to balance rigor with flexibility. Due to the high volume of material covered, students often struggle to navigate the wide range of course materials and topics. 

Audience

First Year Michigan Medical School Students

Outcome/Impact

Approximately 170 first-year medical students use Maizey as a study tool to access lecture slides, transcripts, and other course materials from six Dropbox folders containing over 500 files. The system helps students generate practice questions and clarify course material in a way designed to help medical students prepare for tests in a multiple choice format with case vignettes, with prompts aimed at guiding students through thought processes rather than providing direct answers.

Relevant Topics