Click for a link to the GP Practice Visits section of the website

A list of Key Documents for Active GP Trainers

Advice on ePortfolio and WPBA

Introduction

This course is designed to give you an introduction to learning and teaching in General Practice. It would be unrealistic to expect to cover all possible or even essential topics in the time available. Rather the course should allow you to gain an understanding of the principles of adult learning, some signposts to where further information can be found and the chance to acquire and practise some skills. This handbook can be used for pre course reading and as a reference and includes definitions, lists of useful books, documents and websites.

The course has grown from a ‘Potential Trainers Course’ to the present format designed to give generic skills for all educators in General Practice and has attracted delegates with interests in both postgraduate and undergraduate medical education.

 The course is recognised by both local universities and successful completion of the course allows exemption from one module of the QUB Certificate in Medical Education or one module of the University of Ulster Masters Course in General Practice.

It is recognised that not all the material used will be applicable to all participants in terms of content or context. The skills will however be transferable. For example there is a strong emphasis on teaching consulting skills using video. This models good educational practice in showing sensitivity to the learner’s needs and in using a very learner centred model of teaching. There is adherence to the rules of giving (and receiving) feedback. Thus the skills acquired and practised are transferable to all -including those who may not be called upon to teach in this particular area.

The course is run using small groups, each with a facilitator who is an experienced educator in General Practice. This format, with much mutual support and learning in the groups, is greatly valued by participants. Each year has been different, influenced by the delegates. Each has been highly enjoyable and challenging for participants and leaders.  It is recommended that course members where possible are residential as the freedom from normal responsibilities allows time to concentrate on education. It also maximises the networking -and sheer fun-which takes place in evening sessions.

Post course assessment is by means of a portfolio submission in which delegates display their understanding of adult education theory and principles and reflect on their use in education in primary care.

Learning and Teaching in General Practice

For details of our 2008-2009 course click here Learning & Teaching Flyer

Aims:  to provide a basic training for a competent, confident teacher in General Practice.

• To provide a facilitative learning environment
• To involve participative and flexible learning methods
• To support personal development
• To develop critical thinking and self evaluation
• To model good educational practice

Objectives:  at the end of the five-day course participants should be capable of:

• Describing the major themes and principles which underpin adult education theory
• Carrying out a needs assessment
• Negotiating a suitable curriculum personalised for the learner
• Planning, delivering and evaluating educational activities
• Giving and receiving constructive feedback
• Using a range of assessment methods
• Demonstrating high quality audit
• Demonstrating successful consulting skills on video
• Teaching consulting skills using video
• Planning changes to develop practice to required standard
• Implementing necessary changes