Developing community faculty. Principles, practice, and evaluation
T. G. DeWitt, R. L. Goldberg and K. B. Roberts
Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester.
Medical education is increasingly emphasizing outpatient experiences in
community settings, and, concurrently, the development and assessment of
the teaching skills of community faculty. These skills can be addressed
through a faculty development program focusing on (1) issues relevant to
community education, (2) adult learning principles, and (3) logistics that
facilitate the participation of community medical faculty. Using a series
of 1- to 3-day seminars, the program described focused on clinical
precepting and brief presentations, used interactional teaching and
practicums, and actively involved participants in the evaluation and
planning fo the seminars. Evaluation of the program suggested that it was
successful in increasing participants' knowledge and application of
educational principles taught. Such programs can result in the development
of an effective and potentially abundant resource of faculty members for
the medical education of students and residents.
