Impact in Education: Jason Langenfeld, MD

Jason Langenfeld, MD, is the recipient of the 2020-21 UNMC Impact in Education for Innovative Practices in Education Award. This award recognizes an individual who demonstrates ingenuity, courage and creativity in teaching including innovations in use of educational technology, experiential learning, adoption of simulation and creative use of the classroom, as well as an engaging presentation style.

• Name: Jason Langenfeld, MD
• Title: Associate professor, UNMC Department of Emergency Medicine; simulation director and assistant residency program director
• Joined UNMC: 2015
• Hometown: Omaha, Nebraska

You are the recipient of the Innovative Practices in Education Award. How has innovation played a part in your teaching career?

Former U.S. Chief Technology Officer Megan Smith stated, “Innovation comes out of great human ingenuity and very personal passions.” Providing exceptional care for patients, and training others to do the same, has been my passion. Throughout my career, I have held an enthusiasm for teaching, striving to advance excellence in medical education. In terms of ingenuity, I have always enjoyed being an idea person. I like looking at processes, findings alternatives to those that are not working, as well as refining and improving those that are.

My successes have been achieved only with the support of the amazing teams I have had the privilege of working with. I have been fortunate to work with people who share enthusiasm, are willing to put forth the extra effort and who do not let the status quo get in the way of growth.

Honestly, so much innovation arises from looking to have some fun with teaching and finding ways engage learners. That might be simply wearing a costume, finding new ways to present old material, utilizing new technologies and tools, or blowing up the format and rebuilding from the ground up. If you make it fun and memorable, you hope that your learners will have fun and remember it.

Describe your proudest moment as an educator.

As educators, I think we all look for our students to succeed. Sometimes we lose track of people as we all move forward with our lives. I am most proud when I get to see effects down the line. I love running into former students years later doing amazing things. This year, I got a card from a former resident from many years ago thanking me for the positive impact I had on them as a physician. I can’t beat that.

What advice would you give other faculty members who want to have an impact in education?

Beginning with the end in mind, always strive to provide education that prepares the learners to go out and do great things in the world. With that said, look at the many ways we can work to meet that objective, and never be afraid to try new things and mix it up a bit. If you have fun with it, so will the learners.

Do you have a favorite quote or philosophy on teaching?

“No significant learning occurs without a significant relationship.” — Dr. James Comer