[Initial experience with the PCDiary: software for physicians for documenting and evaluating individual learning]

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Continuing Professional Development
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Physicians require structured methods for self-directed learning and professional development.
• Tracking learning activities is crucial for assessing knowledge acquisition and practice improvement.
• Digital tools offer potential for efficient recording and analysis of learning experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a computer diary for physicians to document self-directed learning activities.
• To analyze the sources of learning stimuli and intended outcomes recorded by physicians.
• To assess physician perceptions of the diary's impact on patient care reflection.

Main Methods:

• Development of a computer diary application for recording learning items (question, stimulus, resources, outcome).
• Analysis of records from 123 volunteer physicians using the diary.
• Survey administered to physicians to gather feedback on their experience with the software.

Main Results:

• Learning was most frequently stimulated by literature review and patient management scenarios.
• Physicians most often intended to change practice when learning was prompted by patient care.
• Half of the participating physicians reported increased reflection on patient care due to diary use.

Conclusions:

• A computer diary can effectively facilitate the documentation of physicians' self-directed learning.
• The diary highlights the link between clinical practice and the identification of learning needs.
• This technology may enhance physician self-awareness regarding patient care and professional growth.