Background: Childhood rheumatic diseases (cRDs) are more prevalent than commonly perceived, yet medical trainees often receive inconsistent exposure to pediatric rheumatology. Many medical schools and residency programs lack affiliated pediatric rheumatologists, contributing to knowledge gaps and delays in diagnosis. With a growing workforce shortage and care disparities, innovative educational approaches are essential.

Innovation: We developed an interactive, gamified bingo card to enhance pediatric rheumatology learning. This tool incentivizes engagement through structured clinical exposures, core knowledge tasks, and hands-on activities. Residents achieve “bingo” by completing five consecutive squares, each linked to key learning objectives based on American Board of Pediatrics content specifications and institutional clinical encounter data. Game mechanics—challenge, control, rules/goals, and assessment—promote self-directed learning and accountability.

Implementation & Evaluation: Pediatric and medicine-pediatrics residents used the bingo card during a one-week rotation, with faculty validating completed tasks. In the 2023–2024 academic year, 50 interns received the tool, with 74% submitting completed cards. Residents checked off an average of 12 squares per week, with 31% achieving bingo. Post-rotation surveys (44% response rate) indicated the tool prioritized learning and facilitated faculty feedback. Faculty reported improved teaching efficiency by quickly identifying teaching points yet to be covered.

parrot fish

Conclusion: Gamification enhances pediatric rheumatology education within limited clinical experiences. This tool fosters engagement, supports knowledge acquisition, and offers a scalable model for specialized graduate medical education. Future adaptations may expand game elements to further increase motivation and peer collaboration.