Doctors As Teachers Assessment (DATA) – a multisource feedback tool for faculty development

Background: Positive role models have a significant impact on the delivery of education and training by creating a favourable culture for learning. Although assessment and evaluation are key components of medical education, assessment of teacher performance has received scant attention to date. Aim: The development and pilot testing of a multisource feedback tool (Doctors As Teachers Assessment – DATA) for assessing teacher performance is described. Method: The Delphi technique was used to identify the key attributes of an ideal teacher. Four domains that encompassed a range of descriptive terms were then developed. The tool was pilot tested and validated for consistency and feasibility of use. Results: The four domains of the DATA tool consisted of: Teaching at the Correct Level; Clinical Knowledge and Skills; Teaching Techniques; and Inspirational Role Model, with four point rating scale. Fifty-seven doctors in training rated their teachers (educational and clinical supervisors) on two separate occasions, 2 – 4 weeks apart, to test consistency. The tool was then used to rate 311 teachers. Conclusion: Doctors As Teachers Assessment (DATA) is a valid, reliable multisource feedback tool for assessing teacher performance and promoting faculty development.