GP-VTS half-day release: evaluating a virtual group approach

Abstract

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN IN THIS AREA

•	Attendance at the traditional half-day release GP vocational training schemes (VTS) is becoming more difficult because of the European Working Time Directive, flexible working, etc.
•	There are many other avenues for learning available than just the half-day release.

WHAT THIS WORK ADDS

•	It is possible to set up and run a virtual VTS group using modern technology blended with some meetings for group forming and sharing of project work.
•	The monitoring evaluation and review cycle can be used to refine such an educational.

SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE RESEARCH

•	Further exploration of barriers to participation and possible solutions for individual learners in a virtual group.
•	How such developments can keep pace with, and make best use of continually developing communication technology.

Keywords:

• day release course
• e-learning
• general practice registrars
• vocational training

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Peter Worrall

Peter Worrall, MEd, is an educationalist and occasional CO, Leicester VTS

Nigel Scarborough

Nigel Scarborough, FRCGP, is course organiser (CO), Leicester VTS

Tim Jennings

Tim Jennings, MRCGP, is CO Leicester VTS

Isla Kuhn

Isla Kuhn, MSc, was Outreach Librarian for Primary Care, University of Leicester and is now Readers' Services Librarian, University of Cambridge Medical Library.