Addressing the needs and priorities of medical teachers through a collaborative intensive faculty development programme

Abstract

Faculty development in medical education is crucial for developing and sustaining quality education in medical schools. However, examples of successful intensive programmes based on experiential and collaborative learning are generally lacking in the literature. The Medical Education Unit of National University of Singapore conducted a three-day intensive programme on core competences in medical education. This paper highlights the process of programme development, programme structure, challenges faced and strategies adopted. It also describes the approach taken to educational programme evaluation along with the results. The programme structure was based on experiential and collaborative learning models. Participants contributed to all activities and emerged as facilitators and learners to gain first-hand experience of the complex educational processes. Each individual session was sequential with a brief plenary, demonstration, practicum and reflection. Pre-programme needs assessment showed that even the experienced teachers perceived a need to further improve their educational competencies.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Zubair Amin

ZUBAIR AMIN is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Singapore and Consultant, Department of Neonatology, National University Hospital.

Khoo Hoon Eng

KHOO HOON ENG is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Singapore.

Matthew Gwee

MATTHEW GWEE is a Professorial Fellow in the Department of Pharmacology and Interim Director, Medical Education Unit, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Singapore.

Tan Chay Hoon

TAN CHAY HOON is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Singapore.

Koh Dow Rhoon

KOH DOW RHOON is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physiology and Associate Dean of Education, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Singapore. All are affiliated with the Medical Education Unit, National University of Singapore.