When it comes to dog training, the clicker has been a go-to tool since the 1980s, breaking down complex behaviors into simple, click-marked steps. But did you know that the same principle is now being applied in a rather unexpected field—surgery?
Surgical Training with a Click
Surgeons are now using clickers to expedite the learning process for new residents. In a profession where the stakes are high and the stress is palpable, the straightforward nature of clicker training is proving beneficial. A click signifies a job well done, be it positioning a drill correctly or making a precise incision.
“Clicker training is free from emotional baggage,” says Martin Levy, an orthopedic surgeon at New York’s Montefiore Medical Center, who shared his insights with NPR’s Morning Edition. With over four decades of experience, Levy is also a Border Collie aficionado, using positive reinforcement to train his dogs for agility courses. He discovered that these methods were more effective than traditional teaching tools in a hospital setting, making him the pioneer of clicker training in the operating room.
Positive Reinforcement Across Species
Dr. Christie Long, PetCoach’s director of veterinary medicine, explains the initial phase of clicker training for dogs: “You ask the dog to perform an action, and upon compliance, you reward it with a high-value treat and a click.” As the behavior becomes ingrained, the treats are phased out, leaving the click and verbal praise as sufficient rewards.
While it’s unlikely you’ll teach your dog complex surgical procedures, strategic clicker training can make them a pro at tricks like rolling over. The same principle that works for dogs is now helping surgeons refine their skills with remarkable efficiency.
A Tailored Approach to Learning
Levy’s residents, having already endured the rigors of medical school and internships, are highly motivated to excel. The introduction of clicker training in the operating room removes the pressure and judgment often associated with learning new skills in a high-stakes environment. This tailored approach to learning is not only innovative but also incredibly effective, as it focuses on the positive reinforcement of correct actions.