Utilization of Team Process Framework to Improve Small-Group Learning in Medical Education

Abstract

Working in teams is an important aspect of clinical practice and medical education. Medical educators have embraced instructional strategies that use multiple learners to facilitate learning. However, the learning benefits of these strategies should be substantiated by additional inquiries in the area of team cognition and team processes. There are limited efforts to evaluate the efficacy of learning processes associated with learning teams. This presentation provides theoretical background for team learning processes that influence team and individual learning. It also outlines the development of shared understanding or shared mental models, and how they impact students' performance. Team process behaviors, such as team communication and team coordination, mediate the process of developing shared mental models, which in turn affect learning outcomes. Understanding the role of shared mental models in small group learning improves the efficacy of small group learning. Grant Funding Source N/A