Open AccessAn evaluation strategy for rheumatology education
Author(s) -
Meenan Robert F.,
Goldenberg Don L.,
Murrman Marita K.,
Cohen Alan S.
Publication year - 1982
Publication title -
arthritis & rheumatism
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1529-0131
pISSN - 0004-3591
DOI - 10.1002/art.1780250116
Subject(s) - medical education , medicine , rheumatology , plan (archaeology) , program evaluation , professional development , value (mathematics) , computer science , political science , archaeology , public administration , machine learning , history
The number of professional education programs in rheumatology is increasing at a rapid rate. All efforts to establish such programs should include a formal evaluation plan to assess their value. Clear definitions of program objectives and an understanding of the concepts of education program evaluation should be the basis of planning. We have developed an evaluation approach that focuses on education impact as the key measure of program benefits. Impact is measured in three critical areas: knowledge, clinical performance, and professional behavior. The tools used in this approach include two questionnaires and a trained patient. Educators may use these measures together to generate an overall estimate of education benefits, or they can use them separately to evaluate specific program objectives. This theory‐based strategy can serve as a general model for approaching the evaluation of professional education programs in rheumatology.