Applying Zimmerman’s Self-Regulated Learning Model to Support Healthcare Professionals’ Transition From Clinical Practice to Academia

Abstract

A core value amongst healthcare professionals (HCPs) is lifelong learning, as this competency is essential to best patient care practices that are continually informed by updated research, changes in population health needs, and advances in technology. After mastering practice competencies through traditional continuing education modalities, an intrepid few may embark upon unique learning experiences by transitioning from clinical practice to academia. To do so successfully, HCPs must examine their expert knowledge in patient care and learn to adapt these skills to meet academic job demands. HCPs making this workplace shift must also learn new skills that are specific to the academic setting. Professionals in this context are both adult learners and (self) educators. This article presents existing adult learning frameworks and offers an adaptation to Zimmerman’s Self-Regulated Learning model to meet the needs of HCPs who seek guidance for the transition from clinical practice to academia.

Keywords

Zimmerman's SRL Model adult learning healthcare professionals academia

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