How to Design a Point-of-Care Ultrasound Training Course Using Educational Theories.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Point-of-Care Ultrasound Training
• Continuing Professional Development

Background:

• Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) proficiency demands integrating anatomical knowledge, image acquisition skills, and clinical interpretation.
• Effective POCUS education requires a structured pedagogical approach.
• Current continuing professional development (CPD) programs may benefit from enhanced instructional design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a comprehensive framework for designing POCUS courses for CPD.
• To illustrate the application of cognitivism, behaviorism, and constructivism in POCUS education.
• To provide practical guidance on learner engagement, didactic organization, and feedback mechanisms.

Main Methods:

• Development of a structured course framework based on established learning theories.
• Integration of cognitivism, behaviorism, and constructivism into course design.
• Guidance on practical aspects of course delivery, including engagement and feedback.

Main Results:

• A systematic framework for POCUS CPD course design is presented.
• The application of learning theories is demonstrated to enhance the educational experience.
• Strategies for maintaining learner engagement and delivering effective feedback are outlined.

Conclusions:

• A structured, theory-informed approach can significantly improve POCUS education.
• This framework provides a model for developing effective CPD courses in POCUS.
• Optimizing instructional design is crucial for advancing POCUS proficiency.