Delivering training in teaching skills to hospital doctors

We describe a course in effective teaching skills delivered by the Staff Development Unit of the University of Birmingham within Birmingham Heartlands Hospital. The course was structured so that as many doctors as possible could attend and become part of a network sharing an interest in medical teaching. An initial introductory half-day was followed by 13 monthly one-hour lunchtime sessions. Fifty-six doctors attended at least one session and formed a mailing list to receive relevant documents. Of those returning feedback forms, all found the sessions enjoyable and felt they had gained in knowledge. The majority felt they had gained in skills and many commented on the value of being able to discuss medical teaching issues with colleagues and the tutors. The network of colleagues continues to meet and is actively involved with developments in the university undergraduate medical curriculum. This way of delivering training in medical teaching is practical and successful, and contributes to improving a hospital's learning environment.