Andragogy in Practice: Applying a Theoretical Framework to Team Science Training in Biomedical Research.

This study is the first to apply the theoretical principles of Malcolm Knowles' theory of andragogy to evaluate data collected from learners who participated in team science training workshops in a biomedical research setting. Briefly, andragogy includes six principles: the learner's self-concept, the role of experience, readiness to learn, orientation to learning, the learner's need to know, and intrinsic motivation. Using an embedded study design, the primary focus was on qualitative data, with quantitative data complementing the qualitative findings. The deductive analysis demonstrated that approximately 85% of the qualitative data could be connected to at least one andragogical principle. Participant responses to positive evaluation questions were largely related to two principles: readiness to learn and problem-based learning orientation. Participant responses to negative questions were largely connected to two different principles: the role of experience and self-direction. Inductive analysis found an additional theme: meeting biological needs. Quantitative survey results supported the qualitative findings. The study findings demonstrate that andragogy can serve as a valuable construct to integrate into the development of effective team science training for biomedical researchers.

A realist evaluation of a London general practitioner trainer course.

Clinicians with teaching and training roles should be adequately trained and assessed. However, some debate exists as to what the nature of this training should be. Historically, a postgraduate certificate in education was a pre-requisite to becoming a GP trainer but this is changing with growing concern that such a pre-requisite might act as a deterrent to potential GP trainers. This research examines the impact of a scheme designed to provide an alternative, more practical and focused, pathway to becoming a GP trainer. We interviewed 26 course participants and stakeholders of the London GP Training Course (LGPTC), observed teaching sessions, and analysed course materials. We asked what elements of the course were and weren't effective, for whom, and under what circumstances. Here, we present a summary of our main findings - that GP trainers want to know practically, not theoretically, how to be a trainer; formative assessment boosts trainees' confidence in their own skills and abilities; short, practical GP training courses can help enhance the numbers of GP trainers; important questions remain about the role and value of educational theory in education faculty development.

The Development and Evaluation of a Pediatric Interprofessional Education (IPE) Experience for Occupational and Physical Therapy Graduate Students.

Interprofessional competence is needed to improve health care outcomes. The aim of this paper is to describe the development of theoretically grounded interprofessional education (IPE) experiences to advance interprofessional competencies for occupational and physical therapy doctoral students. In addition, a pretest/postest survey was designed to determine the participants' perceptions of knowledge attainment, roles, and attitudes. Two cohorts of students (N = 115) completed surveys pre and post IPE experiences. Statistically significant changes were found on perception of roles and knowledge attainment. Additional studies are needed to determine if IPE leads to behavioral changes in practice and improves patient outcomes.

Theory-Based Approaches to Support Dermoscopic Image Interpretation Education: A Review of the Literature.

Introduction: Efficient interpretation of dermoscopic images relies on pattern recognition, and the development of expert-level proficiency typically requires extensive training and years of practice. While traditional methods of transferring knowledge have proven effective, technological advances may significantly improve upon these strategies and better equip dermoscopy learners with the pattern recognition skills required for real-world practice. Objectives: A narrative review of the literature was performed to explore emerging directions in medical image interpretation education that may enhance dermoscopy education. This article represents the first of a two-part review series on this topic. Methods: To promote innovation in dermoscopy education, the International Skin Imaging Collaborative (ISIC) assembled a 12-member Education Working Group that comprises international dermoscopy experts and educational scientists. Based on a preliminary literature review and their experiences as educators, the group developed and refined a list of innovative approaches through multiple rounds of discussion and feedback. For each approach, literature searches were performed for relevant articles. Results: Through a consensus-based approach, the group identified a number of emerging directions in image interpretation education. The following theory-based approaches will be discussed in this first part: whole-task learning, microlearning, perceptual learning, and adaptive learning. Conclusions: Compared to traditional methods, these theory-based approaches may enhance dermoscopy education by making learning more engaging and interactive and reducing the amount of time required to develop expert-level pattern recognition skills. Further exploration is needed to determine how these approaches can be seamlessly and successfully integrated to optimize dermoscopy education.

Virtual Deliberate Practice Module for Tracheostomy Change Training: An Application of Educational Design Research.

Background: The pandemic poses challenges for in-person procedural skills training. We developed a virtual module for teaching hands-on tracheostomy skills. Objective: To develop and evaluate a virtual module prototype grounded in deliberate practice using tracheostomy change as an example. Methods: After identifying desirable features of a virtual module by surveying stakeholders, we designed a prototype using VoiceThread, a multimedia-based collaborative learning platform. We created an asynchronous module accessible to learners for repeated skill practice and for video upload of individual performance on a tracheostomy task trainer using personal devices. This virtual module provided a four-step coaching (demonstration, deconstruction, formulation, and performance) to practice tracheostomy change. Two instructors reviewed the learners' performance videos, providing timely feedback for further refinement of skills. Results: Sixty-four residents completed the module, System Usability Scale, and self-efficacy survey. All residents rated the module, with a mean System Usability Scale score of 68.6 ± 18.4 (maximum score of 100). Two independent instructors rated performance videos using a 12-item checklist with mean interobserver agreement of 88.1% (standard deviation, 9.7) and mean performance checklist score (n = 40) of 10.1 (standard deviation, 1.2) out of 12. After training, residents reported high confidence in their ability to list and perform procedural steps, with improvement in median (interquartile range) comfort levels from 1 (1-2) to 4 (3-4) out of 5 (P < 0.0001). Conclusion: We developed an asynchronous deliberate practice module on a virtual platform using tracheostomy change as an example. Residents evaluated the module favorably using system usability and learner self-efficacy surveys with improvement of skills.

Simulation-based procedure training (SBPT) in rarely performed procedures: a blueprint for theory-informed design considerations.

Simulation-based procedure training is now integrated within health professions education with literature demonstrating increased performance and translational patient-level outcomes. The focus of published work has been centered around description of such procedural training and the creation of realistic part-task models. There has been little attention with regards to design consideration, specifically around how simulation and educational theory should directly inform programme creation. Using a case-based approach in cardiology as an example, we present a blueprint for theory-informed simulation-based procedure training linking learning needs analysis and defining suitable objectives to matched fidelity. We press the importance of understanding how to implement and utilise task competence benchmarking in practice, and the role of feedback and debriefing in cycles of repeated practice. We conclude with evaluation and argue why this should be considered part of the initial design process rather than an after-thought following education delivery.

The European Examination in Core Cardiology in Focus: Evaluation and Recommendations Using Educational Theory.

The European Examination in Core Cardiology (EECC) is a knowledge-based postgraduate examination for cardiology specialists in Europe. It is designed to assess if a trainee has gained sufficient knowledge for independent specialist practice in core cardiology. A critical evaluation of the ECCC was undertaken using current educational theory. Miller's Pyramid was considered, and the Utility Equation was employed in a mixed methods approach. The utility analysis findings were that the EECC measured well on reliability and validity although improvement could be made in educational impact, cost-effectiveness and accessibility. Recommendations for enhancement were then put forward. No assessment instrument is perfect, and it is important to remember that the EECC is one component of assessment strategy for specialist trainees, complementing other evidence of professional competence. After appraisal, while improvement can be made, the EECC fulfils its ambitions of assessment.

Peer training in surgery: The SSuRF model approach.

Surgical training traditionally has been afforded an apprenticeship model of learning but has since strived to become a structured programme of learning events and progress. Peer led training in an undergraduate course is increasingly utilised but its role in postgraduate/speciality training is not widely published. This paper reviews the historical roots of surgical training and current educational theories which underpin the proposal of a new tool, the SSuRF approach, an innovate aide memoire to assist peer led technical/operative surgical training with the hope that this approach will allow peers, especially those who do not have much formal educational training, to teach those junior using a structured format and document this within their workplace based assessment. This contrasts with the rather tick box exercise that it is currently, and hence may promote a deeper learning throughout the teaching experience.

Discussion on the practice of integrated teaching method based on Dewey’s educational theory in the teaching of standardized training of electrocardiogram / 中华医学教育探索杂志

Objective:To explore the application effect of comprehensive teaching based on Dewey's educational theory in the teaching of standardized training of electrocardiogram (ECG).Methods:A total of 60 residents who were accepted by the ECG Room of Linyi Central Hospital from January 2019 to December 2019 were randomly divided into control group and study group. The control group received regular teaching, and the research group received comprehensive teaching based on Dewey's educational theory, both of which received the standardized training for 3 months. The results of the two groups of ECG theoretical knowledge assessment, the diagnostic accuracy of various types of heart disease ECG performance, the clinical thinking ability before and after the training, the classroom participation after the training, the teamwork ability, the teacher-student communication ability, and the degree of recognition of teaching methods were observed as indexes. SPSS 22.0 was used for t test and chi-square test. Results:The basic knowledge, picture analysis, expanded questions and answers scores and total scores of the theoretical knowledge of ECG in the study group were higher than those in control group ( P<0.05), and the correct rates of diagnosis of ischemic cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia, atrioventricular hypertrophy and congenital heart disease were 96.67%, 100.00%, 96.67% and 100.00% respectively, which were higher than 73.33%, 80.00%, 70.00% and 66.67% respectively in the control group ( P<0.05). The systematic thinking ability, logical thinking ability, critical thinking ability, evidence-based thinking ability, network thinking ability, imaginative thinking ability, horizontal thinking ability and vertical thinking ability scores were increased in both groups after the training, of which the study group were higher than the control group ( P<0.05). After the training, the study group scored higher in class participation, teamwork ability, teacher-student communication ability, and teaching method recognition than the control group ( P<0.05). Conclusion:The application of comprehensive teaching based on Dewey's educational theory in the teaching of ECG standardized training can help residents master the knowledge of ECG theory and ECG performance of various types of heart diseases, and enhance their clinical thinking ability.

Practice of reflective teaching method based on Bloom's educational theory in the standardized residency training of gynecology / 中华医学教育探索杂志

Objective:To explore the practical role of reflective teaching based on Bloom's educational theory in the standardized residency training of gynecology.Methods:A total of 31 residents who participated in the standardized residency training in the Gynecology Department of Beijing Shijitan Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University from July 2019 to January 2020 were classified as the control group, and 33 residents who participated in the standardized training from March 2020 to September 2020 were assigned to the observation group. The control group was given routine teaching, and the observation group was given reflective teaching based on Bloom's educational theory. The theoretical test scores and skill operation test scores before and after the training were compared between the two groups, and the clinical ability and teaching satisfaction of the two groups of residents were compared. SPSS 25.0 was used for t-test and Chi-square test. Results:After the standardized training, the scores of theoretical examination [(88.78±5.69) vs. (84.56±5.23)] and skill operation test [(89.37±5.75) vs. (85.22±5.34)] in the observation group were higher than those in the control group, with statistically significant differences. After the standardized training, the team cooperation ability, diagnosis and treatment technology operation ability, problem analysis and solving ability, clinical thinking ability and doctor-patient communication ability of the observation group were higher than those of the control group, and the differences were statistically significant. After the standardized training, the satisfactions with teaching mode, stimulating learning interest, improving self-study ability, improving diagnosis and treatment thinking ability, and improving problem analysis and solving ability in the observation group were higher than those in the control group, and the differences were statistically significant.Conclusion:Reflective teaching based on Bloom's educational theory can improve the professional theoretical knowledge level, clinical operation level, clinical ability and satisfaction of the gynecological residents, and help them to adapt to the clinical work faster.

Educational theory and its application to advanced life support courses: a narrative review.

The knowledge, skills and attitudes taught on Advanced Life Support (ALS) courses are an important learning requirement for healthcare professionals who are involved with the care of acutely unwell patients. It is essential that the course design and delivery is appropriately planned to ensure that it optimises the learning opportunities for all learners. This paper offers a narrative review of how the application of educational theory has positively influenced the evolution of ALS courses since their inception in the late twentieth century. By embracing and understanding the relevant educational theories, the ALS course design has transformed from a predominantly lecture-based and behaviourist approach, to a more participative and social constructivist approach to learning. In addition, the advent of smarter technology and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic have facilitated a more connectivist approach to learning. It can therefore be demonstrated that the ALS course is influenced by a combination of theoretical approaches and provides a diverse framework of teaching and learning strategies that cater for many individual learning styles. Any further evolution and development of the course should be based upon contemporary educational theory to ensure that it remains fit for purpose.

Innovation of the Education of College Students' Outlook on Life Following Positive Psychology Under the Theory of Educational Psychology.

The study expects to find a better way to improve the teaching quality of the education of college students' outlook on life, based on the theory of educational psychology. First, the relevant theories of positive psychology are introduced and expounded, and the importance of the education of college students' outlook on life is analyzed. Second, the current situations of college students' outlook on life and the education of their outlook on life are investigated through a questionnaire survey, and the problems presented in the questionnaire are analyzed. Then, the correlation between positive psychology and the education of college students' outlook on life is explored, and their mutual connection is analyzed. The results are as follows: 77.4% of the college students have periodical aims and work hard for them; 80.8% of the students think that the realization of life goals rely on hard work, accounting for the largest proportion; when they encounter setbacks, more than 80% of the students choose to work hard to overcome them; 69.2% students think that their outlook on life comes from self-learning and exploration. According to college students' outlook on life in China and other countries, there are many problems in the education of college students' outlook on life, and the teaching quality of the education of college students' outlook on life is backward. The combination of positive psychology and college students' education of college students' outlook on life under the theory of educational psychology provides new ideas and ways for college students' education of college students' outlook on life. The conclusion of this study promotes the innovation of the education of college students' outlook on life.

In-PREP: a new learning design framework and methodology applied to a relational care training intervention for healthcare assistants.

BACKGROUND: 'Older People's Shoes' is a training intervention designed for healthcare assistants (HCAs) to improve the relational care of older people in hospital. The intervention formed part of a broader evaluation, in this paper we describe its development from a learning design and methodological perspective. METHODS: Learning theory and an instructional design model were key components of the In-PREP (Input, Process, Review and Evaluation, Product) development methodology used in the design of the 'Older People's Shoes' training intervention to improve the delivery of relational care by front-line hospital staff. An expert panel, current evidence, and pedagogical theory were used to co-design a training programme tailored to a challenging work environment and taking account of trainees' diverse educational experience. Peer review and process evaluation were built into the development model. RESULTS: In-PREP provided a methodological scaffold for producing evidence-based, peer-reviewed, co-designed training. The product, 'Older People's Shoes', involved a one-day Train the Trainers event, followed by delivery of a two-day, face-to-face training programme by the trainers, with accompanying handbooks underpinned by a range of digital resources. Evaluation found the approach met learner needs, was applicable in practice and won approval from trainers. DISCUSSION: In-PREP enables high quality learning content, alignment with learner needs and a product that is relevant, practical and straightforward to implement.

Exploring communities of practice in the NHS: A core medical trainee experience.

OBJECTIVES: A community of practice was described by Lave and Wenger as a mutual engagement using a shared repertoire of resources to attain a shared goal. This study explored the extent to which NHS workplaces function as communities of practice for core medical trainees. METHODS: All core medical trainees in one region were invited to a semi-structured interview. A framework was produced using communities of practice themes and a hybrid deductive-inductive method used for data analysis. RESULTS: NHS workplaces function as communities of practice by enabling engagement and by formation of mutual relationships. Joint enterprise was evidenced by multidisciplinary team working. Full participation was limited by service provision and short training rotations. CONCLUSIONS: Trainee attendance in clinic and procedure lists should be facilitated. Trainees should be enabled to 'act up' as registrar. Flexibility is needed in jobs by allowing swaps between trainees and the facilitation of 'taster weeks'.

Using problem-based learning to improve patient safety in the emergency department.

Pressures from rising patient numbers and overcrowding in emergency departments (EDs) are putting patients' safety at risk. Beyond improved provision of resources, two elements are essential to patient safety in emergency care - work culture and staff training. In traditional training environments, the teacher dispenses knowledge to nursing students in a classroom setting. However, problem-based learning (PBL) and the related concept of team-based learning (TBL) aim to enhance learners' knowledge and skills in non-technical subjects, such as patient safety, as well as their ability to address challenges they encounter in clinical practice. This article explores the theories that underpin PBL and TBL and discusses how they can be used by nurse educators to motivate staff and improve patient safety in the ED.

Conversation Starter: Advancing the Theory of Peer-Assisted Learning.

This Conversation Starter article uses four selected abstracts, one each from the four regional Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Group on Educational Affairs (CGEA) 2018 spring meetings, as a springboard for unpacking the definition of peer-assisted learning (PAL). The aim of this article is to prompt deeper reflection on this phenomenon and, in so doing, to foster scholarly program evaluation of this widely adopted instructional approach. This analysis calls for a more nuanced definition of PAL, one that emphasizes process over structure, one that stimulates examination of "doing" PAL and how this affects the personal and professional development of all involved.

Current thinking in medical education research: an overview.

Medical education is fast becoming a separate focus, and together with their clinical commitments, many clinicians now seek higher qualifications and professional accreditation in the field. Research is also developing, and there is a need for evidence-based practice in education, just as in clinical work. This review gives an overview of research into medical education, and explains the fundamentals of educational theory and the specific considerations for the quantitative and qualitative research methods that pertain to it. It also explains the application of these methods to two growing areas of research: technology-enhanced learning (TEL) and normative ethics in training.

Listening through the learning conversation: a thought provoking intervention.

This article was migrated. The article was marked as recommended. Feedback plays an essential role in the learning that occurs on life support courses. Since 2007 the preferred method of managing feedback has been the learning conversation, but it remains an area that many facilitators profess to finding challenging. In this article we will explore how simple conversational techniques involved in active listening can lead to significant learning.