The 1st IADVL National dermatology quiz for ­undergraduates: A journey of learning and triumph

Quizzes have long been celebrated as versatile tools for teaching and learning, offering participants not only essential knowledge of core concepts but also the exhilaration of victory, the satisfaction of correct answers, and the motivation to work harder.¹ The National Dermatology Quiz for undergraduates, organized by the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists, and Leprologists (IADVL), is a remarkable effort to promote knowledge and awareness in the field of dermatology among MBBS students. The inaugural edition of this event was a testament to the growing interest in dermatology among clinical year students nationwide. Students teamed up in pairs, with over 160 teams participating in the preliminary rounds. It all began with a simple poster for the event, which gained momentum through social media, thanks to one of my dermatology professors. This fusion of two passions – quizzing and dermatology – ignited a spark of excitement among potential participants.

The quiz unfolded in three captivating stages, each designed to challenge and inspire participants. The preliminary round acted as a screening phase, enabling selection of the best teams to proceed further. The semifinals brought together the top four teams from each geographical zone, the 16 teams creating an atmosphere of healthy competition. The finals were held at MID DERMACON 2022 in Lucknow, where the top four teams competed for ultimate glory. Each stage was a thrilling journey, testing the knowledge of participants, from the fundamentals of dermatology to the most complex diseases, with some intriguing trivia added to spark curiosity.

Our team embarked on this exhilarating journey in the preliminary round, facing a 50-MCQ-based online test with anticipation and determination. The moment we learned of our qualification for the next level, it was a profound boost to our confidence, validating our dedication. The semifinal was an engaging and enlightening experience. It allowed us to meet and learn from brilliant young minds representing prestigious medical institutions across the country. During this round, we maintained a streak of correct answers throughout, that ultimately led to our victory. The climactic moment of the quiz arrived at MID DERMACON 2022 in Lucknow on 25^th September. Four highly skilled teams faced off against one another, all of whom had dedicated countless hours to reach this stage. The atmosphere was electric, and the stakes were high as advanced questions challenged our knowledge. After six intense rounds, the quiz concluded, and while our performance may not have been the finest, we secured the 3rd position and earned the coveted bronze trophy. However, the true champions behind our success were our dedicated professors, who invested their time, effort, and resources into our preparation. Their unwavering support was instrumental in our journey

Quizzes, like life itself, encompass both highs and lows, mirroring the roller coaster of emotions with moments of amusement and distress. They offer an exciting and efficient alternative to traditional learning methods. The IADVL National UG Quiz was crucial in providing quality education and awareness in the field of dermatology among undergraduates. Dermatology, often referred to as a "short subject" in the MBBS curriculum, is much more than it appears. This quiz shattered preconceived notions, allowing curious students the opportunity to explore the field in depth. It exposed them to a diverse range of dermatology topics and disorders. This event encouraged students to delve deeper into the subject matter, beyond the constraints of the formal curriculum.

The IADVL National Dermatology Quiz not only fostered a love for dermatology but also promoted networking and the formation of lasting friendships among participants. It provided a unique opportunity to truly explore dermatology. The IADVL National Dermatology Quiz exemplifies the power of quizzing as a tool for education and motivation. It successfully bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical exposure, leaving a lasting impact on all participants. It is a shining example of how quizzes can be more than just tests; they can be transformative experiences that inspire learning and camaraderie [Figure 1].

Close

Figure 1:

1st National IADVL UG Quiz Finals, Lucknow (2022) - the finalists are posing with the Quizmasters - Dr. Anupam Das and Dr. Shekhar Neema, IADVL President - Dr. Rashmi Sarkar, and Scientific Chairperson Dr Abir Saraswat.

Export to PPT