Rapid Fire (Concurrent Session)-Rapid Session-Driving Change in Learner Engagement

Pdf Summary

The study aimed to understand the impact of changes in continuing professional development (CPD) activities due to the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare professionals' participation and preferences. This was done through a mixed-methods approach including quantitative surveys and qualitative focus groups. The focus groups consisted of small and homogeneous groups of 6-8 participants, with sessions lasting for about an hour and audio recorded. The goal was to achieve theoretical saturation by conducting 3-4 sessions. The participants were physicians representing 7 specialties who were invited through email invitations from participating societies.<br /><br />During the focus groups, participants were asked about their experiences as learners during the height of the pandemic, their current learning preferences, barriers faced in accessing education in their preferred format, plans for education participation in the next 12 months, and their thoughts on preferences for learning and educational offerings.<br /><br />The results revealed that participants preferred online learning as it allowed them to have flexibility and learn at their own pace. They also appreciated the increased accessibility to online resources, which helped in maintaining their licenses abroad and contributing to their professional development. Many participants mentioned attending more webinars during the pandemic and appreciated the variety of offerings that became available.<br /><br />The study discussed the importance of learner autonomy, allowing individuals to take charge of their own learning and choose the content and format that suits them best. The findings also highlighted the shift in perspective towards in-person meetings, where participants now saw them differently and valued the convenience of online learning.<br /><br />The study acknowledged the contributions of various organizations and individuals involved in the research project. Overall, the findings underscored the need for flexible and diverse CPD formats to cater to the preferences and needs of healthcare professionals, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Asset Caption

Driving Change in Learner Engagement
A Transformation of Continuing Professional Development

James D. Morgante, PhD
American Society of Clinical Oncology

Keywords

continuing professional development

COVID-19 pandemic

healthcare professionals

participation

online learning

accessibility

webinars

learner autonomy

in-person meetings

flexible CPD formats