Evaluating the Experiences of Novice Veterinary Clinical Practice Educators: A Qualitative Reflection on a UK Training Program.

Abstract

Within the evolving landscape of veterinary education in the United Kingdom, an increasing shift toward a distributed model of instruction necessitates that clinicians who assume the role of novice educators, receive training as clinical educators. The University of Surrey has pioneered a training program aimed at promoting understanding and application of educational theory in veterinary educator identity development. This study investigated the reflections of novice educators upon conclusion of their training to delineate the program's efficacy and identify areas of educator training necessitating further research and enhancement. A convenience sample of 53 reflective narratives was subjected to inductive thematic analysis. Three principal themes emerged. The first encapsulated an enhanced cognizance of student learning needs, underscored by foundational learning theories. Notably, the introduction of "feedforward" and the incorporation of student reflection within the feedback mechanism were identified as innovative concepts. The second theme revolved around the personal growth experienced because of participation in the training program, with 47% of reflections articulating profound introspection. The final theme explored the perceptions of the rewards and challenges associated with balancing the educational program with routine professional responsibilities, highlighting an increase in self-confidence and the obstacles encountered in allocating time for training.