Open AccessObservational studies in health professional education research
Author(s) -
Joanna Tai,
Juan Fischer,
Christy Noble
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
focus on health professional education a multi-professional journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2204-7662
DOI - 10.11157/fohpe.v22i1.536
Subject(s) - observational study , observational methods in psychology , health professionals , observational learning , ethnography , qualitative research , psychology , medical education , medicine , sociology , health care , pedagogy , political science , social science , pathology , anthropology , law , experiential learning
Observational studies are not uncommon in health professional education and are frequently associated with ethnography as a methodology. This article aims to provide an overview of how observational studies are used in health professional education research. Firstly, we explore some ways in which observational methods can be used in association with a range of qualitative research stances, and then we focus on the practicalities of undertaking observational research. Next, we use two case studies to illustrate some of the key decision points when designing observational research. Finally, we collate resources and consider the implications of contemporary world events on observational research.