The recent study "Identifying research priorities for health professions education research in sub-Saharan Africa using a modified Delphi method" highlights the importance of establishing a coordinated research agenda to improve health professions education (HPE) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This blog aims to help practitioners implement the outcomes of this research to enhance their skills and encourage further research in the field.
Understanding the Research Priorities
The study utilized a modified Delphi method to identify and prioritize research topics critical to HPE in SSA. The final list of 12 research topics, grouped into three categories, provides a roadmap for practitioners and researchers:
- Creating an Enabling Environment: Addressing the challenges in rural and remote areas, faculty development, and ensuring sufficient resources and political commitment.
- Enhancing Student Learning: Focusing on interprofessional collaboration, holistic care, and culturally relevant communication skills.
- Improving Pedagogical Practice: Utilizing information communication technology (ICT), quality assurance, and responsive curricula.
Implementing Research Outcomes
Practitioners can take several steps to integrate these research priorities into their work:
1. Focus on Rural and Remote Areas
Addressing the human resources for health challenges in rural and remote settings was the top priority. Practitioners should:
- Develop training programs that prepare students for the unique challenges of rural healthcare.
- Advocate for policies that support the deployment of healthcare professionals in underserved areas.
2. Enhance Faculty Development
Investing in faculty development, particularly for clinical teaching, is crucial. Practitioners should:
- Participate in and promote faculty development programs that focus on clinical education.
- Encourage research on effective faculty development strategies in SSA.
3. Utilize Information Communication Technology
ICT can play a significant role in enhancing HPE. Practitioners should:
- Incorporate e-learning and mobile technology into their teaching methods.
- Explore innovative ways to use ICT in resource-constrained settings.
Encouraging Further Research
While implementing these priorities, it is equally important to continue researching and refining HPE practices. Practitioners should:
- Collaborate with local and international researchers to conduct studies on these priorities.
- Share findings and best practices through publications and conferences.
By focusing on these research priorities and fostering a collaborative research environment, practitioners can significantly improve health professions education in SSA, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for the region.To read the original research paper, please follow this link:
Identifying research priorities for health professions education research in sub-Saharan Africa using a modified Delphi method.
