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An analogy is the comparison of something familiar to something unfamiliar, in order to explain a common principle. This builds on the framework of the learners’ existing knowledge, so they are not starting from scratch. Imagine trying to put together a mixed up puzzle, without the picture to work from. Now imagine if someone laid out the corner pieces and some of the edge pieces for you. Just as this would help you get oriented and feel less lost, the comparison to a familiar concept allows patients to make sense of unfamiliar medical concepts. Analogies have been used in many areas for problem solving and teaching. They are commonly used in talking to patients. Because of the frequency of their use and potential power in effective communication, it is useful to study medical analogies more closely. |