A reflection on some key pedagogical competencies, valuable to the role of the medical educator

Abstract

Annwyne Houldsworth

The role of a university professor is multifaceted; as teacher, facilitator, assessor, evaluator, models of learning themselves as self-directed learners, addressing several key competencies for the effective teacher. It is not only about the transmission of knowledge, facts and skills but also about understanding how a student learns and being able to adapt and differentiate the delivery to personalise the learning. Appropriate questioning to assess prior knowledge and testing or challenging the understanding of the student learning is also a skill for the professor. Being able to access and use a variety of resources is important to deepen the understanding of student learning, including current IT skills. The relationship between learner and mentor is essential, developing trust and confidence. The development of appropriate medical and basic science language is an important element to the learning process. The professor’s collaboration and collegiate practices in a learning community enrich the learning experience, where best practice can be shared and communicated. It is important to be able to measure the impact of the teaching through assessment (formative and summative) and evaluation, which drives continued improvement in the learning experience. The innovative use of resources and environment that supports student and patient-centred learning and effectively engages with the students must be contextually and clinically relevant to the student’s experience.