The inaugural lecture “Perspectives and Connections” focuses on academic development within medical education. Tommy Pattij, University Chair professor of Academic Development in Medical Education, emphasizes in his lecture that, in addition to medical knowledge, communication skills, and professionalism, a good physician must also be curious, critical, scientifically literate, and socially engaged. The goal is to train doctors who can adapt flexibly to change and continue to develop throughout their careers.
Curiosity and Wonder as a Foundation
Curiosity and wonder are key foundations of academic education. Drawing on personal experiences, Pattij demonstrates how inspiring teachers and their enthusiasm can have a major impact on students’ interests and career choices. “That is why role models play an important role in education. Students learn not only through explanations and instruction, but also by observing how teachers interact with patients, colleagues, and handle mistakes. A safe learning environment where students feel seen and taken seriously contributes to their professional identity and development,” says Pattij.
The Importance of Science in Medicine
Science and medicine are closely intertwined. Not all students need to become scientific researchers, but they do need to learn how scientific knowledge is developed and applied. This forms the basis for evidence-based medicine: making medical decisions based on scientific evidence. By introducing students to clinically relevant research and researchers early in their program, their curiosity and scientific mindset are stimulated. Internships and hands-on research experiences also contribute to this. The revamped bachelor’s program at VU Amsterdam, which will begin in the 2027–2028 academic year, offers opportunities to further integrate science into the curriculum.
Training Doctors in the Age of AI
The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies demands new skills from future physicians. Students must learn how AI works, how to use this technology responsibly, and what ethical, legal, and societal implications are associated with it. AI offers many opportunities, such as practicing clinical reasoning and deepening knowledge through interactive learning tools.
At the same time, there are risks. If students rely too heavily on generative AI, they may fail to adequately develop important knowledge and thinking skills. Independently building foundational knowledge, critical thinking, evaluating scientific articles, and interpreting research results therefore remain essential. AI should support the learning process, not replace independent thinking. Education must therefore teach students both how to work with AI and when independent thinking is necessary.
Innovation and Collaboration in Education
In addition to AI, digital technology offers opportunities for anatomy education. Virtual reality, augmented reality, and interactive 3D models can make complex anatomical structures and conditions easier to understand. Furthermore, 3D-printed models allow students and healthcare professionals to examine anatomy and pathology firsthand. The goal is to further develop these innovations and investigate how they improve learning.
Students must also be actively involved in educational innovation. According to self-determination theory, motivation and development are stimulated by autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Students and instructors are therefore jointly responsible for education and form a community in which they learn from one another.
Dealing with Social Changes and New Challenges in Healthcare
“The core of my inaugural lecture is that academic education goes beyond the acquisition of medical knowledge and practical skills. It is about personal development: cultivating a critical, curious, responsible, and continuously learning physician. By combining science, technological innovation, inspiring role models, and collaboration with students, future physicians will be better equipped to deal with societal changes and new challenges in healthcare. “In this way, they learn not only to solve medical problems, but also to understand different perspectives and recognize connections in order to improve patient care,” said Pattij.