Beyond Qualification: A Video-Stimulated Interview Study on What Group Discussion of Audit and Feedback Adds to Professional Development in General Practice

Introduction: Modern healthcare demands continuing professional development (CPD) that bridges learning and practice and motivates health professionals. Current CPD activities often prioritize qualification, while socialization and subjectification purposes are considered vital in other educational contexts and could help to foster dynamic learning. Group discussion of audit and feedback (A&F) is a form of CPD that is used increasingly, and that may fulfill these needs. However, little is known about how this approach creates learning opportunities or what the group dynamic contributes.

Method: In this video-stimulated interview study we explored how a group of experienced general practitioners perceive the value of group discussion of A&F in their professional development, employing a constructivist paradigm. We first inductively analyzed our findings, using Thematic Analysis. A second deductive analysis followed, using Biesta’s concept of the three purposes of education (qualification, socialization and subjectification) as framework.

Results: According to our participants, group discussion of A&F allows for a reflective process that adds to their professional development. The group helps deepen reflection and assists with the forming of individual and collective opinions. The meetings enhanced motivation for both individual and collective learning. Key conditions included a safe learning environment and a high level of enjoyability. The group meetings offered opportunities for all three purposes of education.

Discussion: Group discussion adds value to individual A&F by offering room for socialization and subjectification, as well as classic qualification purposes. It thereby offers a future proof form of CPD that could improve quality of healthcare and stimulate lifelong learning.