Exploratory Study of Rural Physicians' Self-Directed Learning Experiences in a Digital Age

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Digital Health
• Physician Professional Development

Background:

• Self-directed learning (SDL) for physicians is evolving due to digital, social, and mobile technologies (DSMTs).
• DSMTs offer opportunities for 'just-in-time' information access but require effective integration for continuous learning.
• Rural physicians face unique challenges and opportunities in adopting new learning technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the self-directed learning experiences of rural physicians.
• To investigate the potential of DSMTs in supporting rural physicians' continuing professional development (CPD).

Main Methods:

• Conducted semistructured interviews with a purposive sample of rural physicians (N=14).
• Utilized thematic analysis with NVivo software for data analysis.
• Transcribed interview data verbatim for detailed examination.

Main Results:

• Key themes included triggers for SDL, methods used, barriers, and support systems.
• Rural physicians increasingly use mobile phones, tablets, and laptops for knowledge updates and patient care.
• Mobile technologies and some social media act as triggers for SDL, especially at the point of care, though social media use is tempered by credibility concerns.

Conclusions:

• DSMTs are increasingly vital resources for rural physician SDL and CPD.
• Mobile technologies enhance point-of-care learning and information retrieval efficiency.
• The rise of DSMTs necessitates rethinking SDL conceptualizations and CPD credit systems.