Course Level: Beginner
Course Limit: 25
Format Requirements: This short course is presented by the SMDM Career Development Committee as an overview of core elements of effective teaching based upon learning theories and “best practices” from the health professions education literature. Participants will add to their toolbox of teaching strategies approaches that focus on active learning and learner-centered instruction. Based on interest, future courses may provide in-depth training in specific teaching methods, mentoring and use of technological tools in teaching. The course format will be a mix of lecture, group discussions and exercises based on real-life case studies. There are no prerequisites for participation. The course will be taught by Dr. Janet Riddle, MD, a research assistant professor at the Department of Medical Education, University of Illinois, Chicago. Currently, Dr. Riddle is Director of Faculty Development for the Department of Medical Education, directs the Scholars for Teaching Excellence Faculty Fellowship and the UICMC Teaching Skills Program for Residents.
Background: For most SMDM members, teaching is an important aspect of our work; however, few of us have the opportunity to receive formal training in learning theories and teaching skills. Many face their first class with nervousness and a limited understanding of teaching strategies and available teaching tools. This short course will provide an opportunity to learn about major theories of teaching and learning as the underpinnings for effective and innovative teaching strategies in a range of settings (from one-on-one teaching to large classroom teaching). This short course is for you if you are new to teaching or an experienced instructor rethinking your current courses in light of emerging technology.
Description and Objectives:
- To develop a model of effective teaching integrating “best practices” from the health professions education literature and personal experiences of teaching
- To describe, and demonstrate when possible, skills of effective teaching in one-on-one settings, and in small and large groups
- To design instruction to facilitate learning based upon learning theory and best practices from the literature
Focusing on graduate students and other adult learners, this short course has been designed to enhance the instructional skills of SMDM members. We will discuss characteristics and behaviors of effective teachers using examples from the literature and from participants’ personal experiences. Building on that model, we will examine a variety of instructional strategies that focus on active learning and engagement of learners. We will explore learning theories that support those instructional strategies. Participants will learn criteria for selecting instructional strategies that meet learners’ needs. Participants will have the opportunity to practice selected instructional strategies in role-playing situations. Throughout the workshop, we will emphasize the importance of providing effective feedback to learners. Participants will begin to design instruction using the tools and strategies discussed in the workshop that can be used in their own teaching work. If time allows, we will discuss the use of technological tools to support instruction. Finally, this short course will allow participants to reflect upon their teaching philosophy and career development opportunities through the scholarship of teaching.