Interprofessional Team Training: Learning From Learners About Online Versus In-Person Environments

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Healthcare Professions Training
• Interprofessional Collaboration

Background:

• Interprofessional team training (IPTT) is crucial for preparing healthcare students for team-based care.
• Evaluating different learning environments for IPTT delivery is essential for optimizing educational strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare learner outcomes between in-person and online Interprofessional team training (IPTT).

Main Methods:

• A retrospective pre-/post-methodology was employed with 866 undergraduate and graduate students from 11 health professions.
• Interprofessional Collaboration Competency Attainment Survey (ICCAS) scores were compared, alongside analysis of qualitative responses.

Main Results:

• Both in-person and online IPTT significantly improved ICCAS scores (P < .0001) with large effect sizes (Cohen's D = 0.94-1.86).
• In-person delivery showed a statistically greater improvement (P = .038), balanced by the logistical benefits of online formats.
• Qualitative data emphasized the impact on learning, the critical role of facilitator competence, and the importance of setting clear expectations.

Conclusions:

• IPTT effectively supports the development of interprofessional collaboration competencies.
• The choice between in-person and online IPTT should balance the enhanced learning outcomes of in-person formats with the logistical advantages of online delivery.