The informal classroom : evaluating the effects of a continuing medical education program on science learning and attitudes in medical students, residents and physicians

Abstract

Continuing medical education programs play an important role is disseminating current scientific and clinical information to our medical and health care community adult learners. This research study aimed to evaluate the effects of our education programs on science learning and attitudes, observe preferred learning environments and adult learning theories, and to update our evaluation process. The data revealed that learning method preference is dependent on the content of the education program, and that many of our programs, specifically those based on science concepts, followed that preference. Because many of our programs followed the preferred learning style for that specified content, we saw positive observations throughout those programs. This data will help to revitalize our programs, in turn, helping to meet our educational goals and those goals set forth for our members.