| Early clinical exposure (ECE), a crucial component of medical education, aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice, basic science and clinical application, and localized versus holistic understanding of medicine. Its importance is increasingly recognized globally. However, research exploring the pedagogical rationale and current implementation of ECE remains limited. This study examines the historical origins, developmental trajectory, and theoretical foundations of ECE. Furthermore, it provides a comparative analysis of the various forms, current status, and key characteristics of ECE curricula internationally. The findings suggest that ECE plays a significant role in facilitating knowledge transfer, enhancing problem-solving skills, and promoting holistic personal development. Effective implementation of ECE requires a long-term approach to learning outcome assessment, fostering systematic training and whole-person education, optimizing resource allocation, and strengthening risk management. |
