APA/HRSA National Faculty Development Scholars Program: community-based teaching track

Goals and objectives of the APA/HRSA National Faculty Development Scholars Program are described in a companion article in this supplement. Program objectives of the Community-Based Teaching Track were to 1) identify individuals with faculty development skills to serve as regional leaders, conducting local and regional workshops; 2) create a national network of leaders, thereby promoting sustainability; and 3) increase educational contributions of office-based preceptors. Participant objectives were to 1) meet expectations of the program; 2) possess knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to recruit and retain community-based preceptors; 3) possess knowledge and skills needed to conduct faculty development workshops for practitioners; and 4) form local and national collegial networks.

Academicians and practitioners were selected to form 2 cohorts, starting in 1999 (N = 20) and 2000 (N = 22), respectively. Workshops were developed on the basis of projected needs and iterative needs assessments of the participants. Each participant was required to conduct workshops between meetings, first locally and then regionally or nationally.

Forty-two participants conducted 307 workshops attended by 3815 individuals. Participants reported specific knowledge and skills gained from the program and increases in multiple areas of competence. Networks were formed, leading to collaborative regional and national presentations and formation of an APA Faculty Development Special Interest Group. Participants reported increased recruitment of training sites and preceptors, with enhanced relationships.

Program and participant objectives of the Community-Based Teaching Track were met, including implementation of multiple new workshops, development of skills, and creation of a support network to enhance the sustainability of that success.