Early clinical exposure (ECE) is an educational strategy that immerses students in real-world clinical settings early in their training. This approach boosts confidence, competence, and preparedness for advanced education while providing context for theoretical knowledge. This study assesses approaches toward orthopedics-related ECE sessions in preclinical students by measuring confidence and preparedness for primary care orthopedics topics such as fractures. The study involved a whole number enumeration of first-year medical students focusing on limb bone fractures for an ECE. A lesson plan included peer-assisted teaching, technology-enhanced learning with Anatomage and 3D models, and problem-based learning through clinical observation. Students completed pre- and post-session questionnaires to assess their confidence and preparedness, followed by assignments evaluated by anatomy staff. Pre- and post-session Likert ratings were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Open-ended responses were thematically analyzed to identify key themes. A total of 228 students participated in the study, of whom a majority showed a significant boost in confidence in performing clinical examinations and handling limb bone fractures on completion of the session. The students reported that they preferred using 3D-printed fracture models to understand clinical anatomy and the nature of the fractures. This was followed by using an Anatomage virtual dissection table, case discussion on limb bone fractures, discussion with clinicians, peer-assisted teaching, and standard PPT-based didactics. Final-year medical students or interns took the sessions using 3D fracture models and received positive qualitative feedback. Most students felt a comprehensive case covering clinical presentation to fracture management would greatly benefit their clinical education. In conclusion, using different learning strategies and technology, a multi-strategic approach would enhance medical undergraduates' confidence levels and preparedness for their clinical educationBIOGRAPHY

Shivam Thaker is a final-year medical student at Kasturba Medical College, MAHE, Manipal, and has achieved numerous accolades, including distinction in biochemistry and pathology. During his medical school course, he published research in numerous reputed journals. He also filed patent applications in the Indian Patent Office on the Radial Nerve Palsy Splint.