Faculty development: Future directions

Abstract

This chapter will draw upon the lessons learned in preceding chapters and try to develop a road map for the further development of research and practice in this increasingly important area of professional development. Future directions include: moving away from the notion of one-time development to ongoing learning and shifting our emphasis from workshops (and other structured activities) to the workplace; expanding the focus of faculty development to include all faculty roles; building on available evidence and previous success; introducing faculty development early in the careers of future health professionals; mapping a rigorous and meaningful research agenda for faculty development that includes new paradigms, methods of inquiry, and foci for investigation; and learning from each other as we try to nurture and promote faculty members’ curiosity, creativity, and commitment to the formation of future health professionals.