Contributing Authors: David A. Ross, MD, PhD, Melissa R. Arbuckle, MD, PhD, Michael J. Travis, MD, and Jane L. Eisen, MD
Overview: Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a novel, non-invasive, means of brain stimulation that has been the subject of extensive new research and widespread media coverage. We present here a Facilitator’s Guide for teaching trainees about this technology. Content based learning objectives include that the learner will be able to describe: what tDCS is, how it works, potential applications, and current limitations. These objectives are assessed via role play exercise with direct observation. As with all sessions in the Neuroscience in the Media module, additional learning objectives include that the learner will: appreciate the relevance of neuroscience to the future of psychiatry; be able to serve as an ambassador of neuroscience and psychiatry (by demonstrating the ability to critique media coverage of our field); and have fun learning about neuroscience!
Author Affiliations: Dr. Ross is an Associate Program Director and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Arbuckle is Associate Professor of Clinical Psychaitry and Co-Director of Residency Training in Psychiatry at Columbia University and the New York State Psychiatric Institute. Dr. Travis is Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Director of Residency Training in the Department of Psychiatry at Pittsburgh University and the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic. Dr. Eisen Professor of Psychiatry and Human Behavior and Vice Chair for Academic Affairs for the Department of Psychiatry/HB at Brown University. The National Neuroscience Curriculum Initiative is a collaborative effort with AADPRT and the American Psychiatric Association (APA) Council on Medical Education and Lifelong Learning and receives support from the NIH (R25 MH10107602S1) ©National Neuroscience Curriculum Initiative.
