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Evaluating family practice residencies: a new method for qualitative assessment
J M Borkan1, W L Miller, J O Neher
1Department of Family Medicine, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel. borkan@bgumail.bgu.ac.il
Family Medicine
|November 14, 1997
Summary
This study introduces a new qualitative method for evaluating family practice residency programs. The novel approach identified program strengths and weaknesses, offering insights beyond traditional quantitative methods.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Qualitative Research Methods
Background:
- Traditional family practice residency program evaluations primarily use quantitative methods.
- Existing quantitative techniques often focus on isolated aspects of residency education, limiting comprehensive assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and evaluate a novel qualitative methodology for assessing family practice training programs.
- To explore the application of multiple qualitative techniques for a deeper understanding of residency education.
Main Methods:
- Conducted site analyses of two family practice residencies using guest and local faculty.
- Employed qualitative techniques including participant observation, focus groups, in-depth interviews, and text analysis.
- Utilized a discrepancy model to compare program goals with actual training realities, employing immersion/crystallization and data triangulation.
Main Results:
- The study focused on the evaluation process rather than specific content.
- Both evaluated programs met most objectives but exhibited limitations.
- Identified key limitations including faculty workload, lack of a shared vision, and program isolation.
Conclusions:
- Significant lessons were learned, aiding in the refinement of the qualitative evaluation method.
- Comprehensive qualitative reviews offer valuable, unexpected insights into program strengths and limitations.