A Holistic Approach to Enhance FRCS General Surgery Examination Training Using Adult Learning Model: A Non-Profit Initiative

Objectives: To evaluate the impact of adult learning and simulation-based learning (SBL) on surgical trainees’ learning experiences and Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons (FRCS) Section 2 General Surgery examination pass rate. Methods: This was a cross-sequential study involving 148 surgical candidates (72 UK trainees, 75 non-UK trainees) who had attended our revision course (Phoenix FRCS Course) from June 2017 until 2023. Each course comprised a two-day weekend preparation with dedicated sections for clinical, viva, and academic reading, incorporating SBL as its key learning style. We maintained a prospective database of candidate and course details, examination results, and feedback since the course inception. Results: We found that 97% of candidates passed the FRCS examination after their first attempt. The course was attended once by 89% of candidates, and only 3 of the 148 candidates exhausted all four attempts at the examination. Candidate feedback for the course and its style of learning was positive, with simulation-based table viva sessions and virtual clinical sessions proving the most popular learning sessions (95% and 80% of candidates attending courses run in December 2017, April 2018, and May 2021 rated them “Excellent” respectively). Conclusions: The course is centered around shared adult learning and mindfulness tools to encourage candidates to learn from each other and develop confidence and mastery in all domains of surgical practice. These methods have been shown to be effective in achieving high success rates in the Intercollegiate and International FRCS examinations for UK and overseas surgeons.

Full time adult credential students?instructional preferences at California State University, Long Beach: pedagogy or andragogy?

This study investigated the instructional preferences of full time adult credential students after they took a live course called Principles of Adult Education at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) in the fall semester of 2002. These full time adult credential students had been working on their adult teaching credentials to meet the competencies specified by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. The course introduced students to Andragogy developed by Malcolm Knowles out of the andragogical model developed by Lindeman (1926). The study used Principles of Adult Learning Scales (PALS), advanced by Gary Conti in 1983 to measure instructional preferences. Data were collected from 30 (100% of 30) full time adult credential students enrolled in a live course to determine their instructional preferences of helping adults learn. The results of the study showed in most cases these adult learning professionals taught adult students andragogically; in some cases they taught adult students pedagogically.

The Role of Teacher Professional Development in Improving Teaching Quality and Student Learning Outcomes

This study investigates the impact of Teacher Professional Development(TPD)on teaching quality and student learning outcomes.Utilizing a mixed-methods approach,the research draws on quantitative data from standardized test scores and qualitative insights from teacher interviews and classroom observations.The findings indicate a strong positive correlation between TPD,as measured by self-assessment and peer evaluation,and improvements in teaching practices.These enhancements in teaching quality are further shown to have a significant impact on student learning outcomes,including academic achievement,critical thinking,and engagement.The study also presents case studies that highlight the transformative potential of TPD in various educational contexts.Limitations include the generalizability of the sample and the correlational nature of the study design.The research concludes with policy implications,emphasizing the need for increased investment in TPD,customization of TPD programs,and the promotion of a collaborative culture within schools.Future research directions are suggested to further explore the long-term effects of TPD and the most effective models for professional development.

Overseas Short-term Training Program for Chinese University Teacher Educators:Theoretical Basis and Course Design

Overseas three-month intra-university training program is rear in Yunnan,China.Using adult learning and social con-structivism as theoretical basis,the author,introduces the background of the program and the course design,highlighting the inten-tion for the program and similar programs.

Improving presentation effectiveness

Presentations using PowerPoint or similar software are probably the most commonly used format that doctors use for teaching in medical school,during residency,at medical meetings and other continuous medical education(CME)activities.However,their effectiveness has been questioned by many.This article intends to provide,in a synthetized way,several recommendations that can help make presentation more effective.

Critical Review of Literature on Radiologic Technology Education Program Evaluation

Curriculum has achieved a varied record of success in influencing health based practices and developing professional skills. Designing and implementing an effective radiologic technology educational program curriculum requires a disciplined pedagogical approach where the instructor performs a thorough situational analysis, develops a theory based and pragmatic learning plan, and implements a course of study in accordance with the established educational guidelines and requirements. Diligent efforts are needed to enhance the relationship amongst curriculum developers and evaluators. The collection of information at the formative stage: followed by process evaluation to assess implementation as the curriculum progresses, and summative evaluation to assess impact is required for accreditation of program in the United States by the Joint Review Committee for Education in Radiologic Technology. Formative evaluation research is used to enhance effectiveness of the curriculum, guide development of teaching and learning strategies, and reveal promising and ineffective components of curriculum. This review of literature provides evidence as to what is considered to be the best practice in the program evaluation/accreditation process.