Improving course content through multiple methods of needs assessment: A demonstration project

Abstract

We used and evaluated a multifaceted approach to needs assessment in the presentation of a 1‐day update course in gastroenterology for family physicians. Needs assessment was based on (a) an initial “environmental scan “ provided by the experience of local consultant gastroenterologists and the experience of our library's literature‐searching service, (b) a telephone survey of local family physicians active in continuing medical education, (c) “meet‐the‐professor”; breakfast sessions at which family physicians presented cases culled from their practices, and (d) computer‐based touch‐pad technology, which allowed active evaluation of the audience to be integrated into individual presentations. We assessed this approach by soliciting opinions from the participants and the faculty. Meet‐the‐professor discussion groups were useful, but attendance was too limited to assess this concept comprehensively. This method seems to have limited use in preparing for a single short program. Surveying local practitioners was believed to be useful, and integration of touch‐pad technology into the day's presentations was well received and thought to be an effective addition to the program. Combining several approaches to needs assessment is a viable and effective strategy in planning and implementing a short continuing medical education program.