Education abstract
British Dental Journal 193, 167 - 171 (2002)
Published online: 10 August 2002 | doi:10.1038/sj.bdj.4801513
A novel approach to promoting change in SHO training in a dental teaching hospital
J D Clark1, M Thomas2 & L Robertson3
- An action research methodology using focus groups in a staged process encourages open and shared dialogue based on trust and confidentiality and is a commendable instrument to promote change.
- The change is more likely to succeed because it is: a)relevant and practice-based rather than theoretical and b) grass roots rather than hierarchical thus promoting ownership.
- The methodology is transferable but does require the commitment of time and qualitative research expertise.
Abstract
An action research study using a series of staged focus groups with senior house officers (SHOs) and educational supervisors (ES) was used to identify the perceptions of the strengths and challenges in the SHO training programme and to indicate areas for improvement.
The basic findings were not entirely surprising, with SHOs wanting more detailed feedback from educational supervisors and educational supervisors challenged (by time constraints and competing clinical and research responsibilities) in meeting the expectations of the SHOs. However the novel approach of using staged focus groups enhanced the educational supervisors' perception of the SHOs' view of their training and the SHOs' perception of the challenges faced by educational supervisors. Thus a culture of dialogue was created which supported change and innovation.
This process was able to directly inform and influence the development of a new induction programme for SHOs and provide valuable insight into the use of the portfolio of learning and the provision of study opportunities. These findings may only be of local interest, however the method employed can be transferred to other contexts to support a grass roots approach to change. Indeed, since this study has been completed, the method has been replicated in a medical setting.1
- Consultant Orthodontist, Tayside University NHS Trust, Dundee Dental Hospital and School
- Independent Educationalist, 'Saorsa' 5 Bellefield Avenue Dundee DD1 4NG
- Senior Educational Development Officer, SCPMDE Educational Development Unit, Taypark House, Perth Road, Dundee
Correspondence to: J D Clark1 Consultant Orthodontist, Tayside University NHS Trust, Dundee Dental Hospital and School, Park Place, Dundee, DD1 4HN