Chapter 1: Introduction
1.01 Making the most of this book
This book provides an ongoing guide into the theory and methods of good
teaching practice. It is devised to help doctors develop key knowledge and skills
necessary to provide excellent training as part of their day-to-day roles.
The central aim of this book is to provide readers with:
1. A theoretical base of research to inform their understanding of teaching
2. A core text for those wishing to work in a teaching capacity
Our experience tells us that you will become a more confident and competent teacher by:
• Recognising your own learning style and those of others
• Adapting your approach when designing and delivering training
• Becoming more versatile in your teaching practice
You will get the most value from this book by considering your expectations of learning
and what goals you have set yourself to improve your teaching practice.
One way to do this is by looking at each chapter heading and deciding whether the
content therein is immediately relevant to your situation now – does it help you to solve a
problem, increase your knowledge in a particular area or help you to develop a new skill?
Reading selectively using an ordering process for each chapter of “useful now/useful
later” will help you to ensure this book’s continued use as a guide to improving your
teaching practice.
1.02 Conscious & unconscious competence
Your requirement for involvement in teaching and supporting the learning of others
increases with your own professional development. As your accountability and
responsibility grows, (whether this is achieved formally by tutoring medical students or
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