Evaluating the effectiveness of an intensive faculty development program based on the community of practice model

Abstract

This paper reports on the outcomes of a focused Interprofessional Leadership (IPL) Fellows Program, which utilizes the Community of Practice framework. This framework encourages diverse faculty to work together in a structured manner to address critical Interprofessional Education (IPE) issues at a large, research intensive university. Information on the perspectives and behaviors of the first three cohorts selected from 2016-18 (53 individuals) were collected from multiple sources after program completion and assessed. The results indicated a positive effect. The IPL Fellows IPE interactions expanded significantly, awareness of IPE concepts increased, and enhanced teaching skills were reported. Most importantly, 81% of the participants remained involved in IPE activities after completing the program. Keys to the program's success were a longitudinal, structured, theory-based process; a selection procedure designed to choose a diverse set of dedicated faculty; and an institutional pathway intended to encourage participant involvement in the IPE movement after program completion.