Background Among the different aims of medical education, the provision of society with skilled, professional, and knowledgeable healthcare workers who maintain and develop their expertise over a lifetime career is important. The achievement of this goal is linked with the professional development of both faculty members and healthcare workers. This study aims to measure the perception of faculty members regarding their views about the goals of faculty development programs, practices and activities, and factors that determine their achievement.
Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted in multiple universities in the Western region of Saudi Arabia. The participants were given a pre-designed self-administered questionnaire generated from literature. The survey questionnaire consisted of three sections that were designed to assess the faculty members’ perception on the faculty development program.
Results A total of 210 faculty members participated in the study. The most important perceived goal was to motivate teachers to become better teachers. The most important perceived practice was establishing a positive climate for teaching and learning. The most important perceived factor was skilled and dedicated staff support.
Conclusion The results of this study demonstrate that faculty members have positive perceptions regarding all aspects of faculty development programs. This study will raise awareness regarding the importance of faculty development programs in sustaining educational vitality. We recommend the implementation and maintenance of comprehensive faculty development programs in Saudi universities.
Citations
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Transforming Continuing Professional Development for Healthcare Professionals to Meet National Goals in Saudi Arabia Graham T. McMahon, Manal Alnasser, Haya Alzouman, Lama Aldakhil, Asma Ababtain Journal of CME.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
The Impact of Facilitators’ Competencies and Characteristics on Faculty Enhancement Activities in Saudi Arabia: A Mixed-Methods Research Abdulaziz I Alhassan, Njoud A Alghofaily Cureus.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Leadership, management and governance in healthcare education Liberty Rosales International Journal of Research Studies in Education.2024;[Epub] CrossRef