How do factors in fixed clinical teams affect informal learning among Emergency Medicine Residents

Abstract

Introduction: This study was performed to understand how fixed clinical teams affected informal learning in Emergency Medicine Residents. Better understanding the effects of team dynamics on informal learning may help to optimise learning and improve performance. Methods: From 8th February 2020 till 27th September 2020, the Singapore General Hospital Emergency Department adopted a fixed team system. Zoom interviews were carried out amongst Emergency Medicine Residents who worked in the fixed team system using a semi-structured iterative interview guide. A qualitative content analysis was used for this exploratory study. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, anonymised and coding via template analysis performed. Data collection and analysis were performed until data sufficiency. Results: The themes identified centred around relationship dynamics, team composition and motivation for learning. The first was how improved relationships led to improved trust, communications and camaraderie among team members. This improved peer learning and clinical supervision and provided a more personalised learning experience. A balanced team composition allowed learners to be exposed to experts in various subspecialties. Finally, there was an initial increase in motivation, followed by a decrease with time. Conclusion: In postgraduate medical education, working in a fixed team system with balanced members had positive effects on informal learning by strengthening relationships and communications.