iMedEd Initiative named a 2013-15 Apple Distinguished Program

The iMedEd Initiative – UC Irvine’s innovative medical education iPad program – has been recognized as a 2013-15 Apple Distinguished Program. The initiative joins a select group of exemplary learning environments being recognized nationwide. The Apple Distinguished Program designation is awarded for  innovation, leadership and educational excellence, and demonstration of  clear vision.

“The iMedEd Initiative is truly groundbreaking for its innovative, digital-based educational platform that conforms to the 21st century learning styles and needs of students throughout the world,” said Dr. Ralph V. Clayman, dean of the UC Irvine School of Medicine. “We’re honored that Apple has recognized our achievements for a second time.”

The iMedEd Initiative is reinventing the traditional medical school curriculum. It was the first to build a completely digital, interactive, tablet-based learning environment – which includes portable ultrasound clinical training – and continues to lead in adapting emerging technologies for all aspects of medical education. This academic year, the entire four-year curriculum has been placed on iPad, giving UC Irvine one of the first all-digital program medical schools in the nation.

Since 2010, when the initiative was launched, incoming UC Irvine medical students have received fully loaded iPads, putting at their fingertips all the information they need to read, study or review. This multimedia approach accommodates all modes of learning, especially small group sessions.

The iMedEd Initiative is fully supported by the John and Mary Tu Scholarship Fund, which finances the purchase of  iPads and a complete library of digital textbooks for all incoming UC Irvine medical students. The iMedEd Initiative was also recognized as a 2012-13 Apple Distinguished Program.