On the Same Page: Building Best Practices of Peer Coaching for Medical Educators Using Nominal Group Technique

Abstract

This article was migrated. The article was marked as recommended. Introduction: Peer coaching is a faculty development approach that improves teaching practice. Elements include peer observation of teaching, feedback, and collegial exchange. Peer coaching supports reflection on teaching, cultivates workplace learning, and fosters learning cultures. Yet, limited resources are available to guide faculty developers in designing and implementing peer coaching initiatives. This gap may lead to initiatives that fail to optimize teaching effectiveness. Methods: The authors convened a focus group of seven participant experts, via video-teleconference, to arrive at consensus on best practices of peer coaching for medical educators. The focus group utilized Nominal Group Technique, a consensus building methodology. Process steps included an introduction, silent idea generation, idea sharing, group discussion, and voting. Consensus was reached with over 50% agreement. Data were qualitatively analyzed using inductive content analysis, and quotes were extracted to support the identification of best practices. Results: Seventeen best practices were identified. All participant experts recommended a framework for the peer observation process including a pre-observation meeting and post-observation debrief. The participant experts stressed the importance of confidentiality and behaviorally-based feedback. To promote collegial exchange, most agreed peer coaching should be a formative process conducted in an environment that is safe and nonthreatening. Finally, peer coaching should be supported at multiple levels within an organization. Conclusion: Expert consensus generated 17 best practices of peer coaching for medical educators that optimize teaching effectiveness. The results provide a practical resource for faculty developers. Future researchers should explore common pitfalls and barriers to the implementation of peer coaching initiatives from the perspectives of academic leadership, peer coaches, and observed educators.