Teacher training programs in health: strengths and weaknesses

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Health teachers in general do not have a solid base of didactic-pedagogical knowledge. In an attempt to fill this gap and promote ongoing training, some higher education institutions have been offering in-service training programs. The objective of this study was to understand the strengths and weaknesses of in-service education programs in public higher education institutions in the health area.

Method:

An exploratory social research study with a qualitative approach was conducted, with the application of semi-structured interviews with teachers and/or coordinators of the teacher training programs of the participating higher education institutions. The interviews were recorded and transcribed, and underwent thematic content analysis, which allowed categories related to the strengths and weaknesses of teacher training programs to emerge.

Results:

Regarding the strengths, changes in the concepts of doing teaching/being a teacher, as well as institutional changes were observed. As for weaknesses, the lack of time for and/or management of teaching-related activities, the devaluation of teaching-related activities, lack of knowledge of the needs of professors, and resistance on the part of the professors were highlighted.

Conclusion:

Understanding the reality of teacher training programs is a way of evaluating the actions undertaken and working in favor of expanding and improving the initiatives offered to teachers in the health field.

Keywords:
Teacher Training; Higher Education; Higher Education Policy