BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate a novel resident education model that turns the traditional surgical hierarchy upside down, termed a "reverse" peer-assisted learning curriculum.

METHODS: Thirty surgical topics were randomized between medical students and chief residents on each clinical team, with 1 topic being presented briefly during morning rounds. An exam evaluating junior residents' knowledge of these topics was administered before and after 1 month of presentations. A questionnaire was distributed to evaluate the junior residents' perceptions of this teaching model.

RESULTS: Thirty-four residents participated. There was a significant improvement in the mean examination score (54 vs 74, P < .05). No significant difference was noted in the mean score differentials of topics presented by either the medical students or the chief resident (21 vs 18, P = .22). More than 80% of the residents responded positively about the effectiveness of this exercise and agreed that they would like to see this model used on other services.

CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms the hypothesis that medical students can teach surgical topics to junior residents at least as effectively as their chief residents.