Enhancing the quality of supervision: description and initial outcomes of a blended-learning approach to RANZCP supervisor accreditation

Abstract

Objective:

Evaluation of a blended learning adaptation of the accreditation process for supervisors in the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists’ (RANZCP) Competency-Based Fellowship Program.

Method:

The adaption of the accreditation process is described, and a mixed-methods approach was taken in its evaluation. Descriptive statistics are presented for participant responses to and engagement with interactive workshop elements. The Wilcoxon signed ranks test was applied to examine the change in participants’ confidence in their understanding of the expectations of a supervisor at the commencement and conclusion of the workshop. Free text evaluative responses were subject to qualitative content analysis.

Results:

Most participants expressed a preference for the blended learning workshop format and indicated that live polling improved the learning experience. Additionally, participants expressed greater confidence in their understanding of the expectations of the supervisor role following workshop completion.

Conclusions:

The blended learning approach to supervisor training was preferred by participants and may provide a model to be adopted by other training committees and institutions.