Fostering "Reflection-On-Practice" Through a Multisource Feedback and Peer Coaching Pilot Program

Abstract

Introduction: Reflective practice involves thinking about one's practice and often involves using data to effect such reflection. Multisource feedback (MSF) involves evaluation by peers, patients, and coworkers. Coaching has been identified as a key aspect of MSF with peer coaching involving two or more colleagues working together to reflect on current practices and share ideas. We introduced a pilot MSF and peer coaching program with a goal to evaluate its effect on fostering reflective practice.

Methods: Physician participants completed a 360-degree assessment of their practices, followed by peer coaching sessions. Peer coaches were oriented to an evidence-based theory-driven feedback model (R2C2) to support coaching skills development. A mixed-methods evaluation study was undertaken, including pre to post surveys of readiness for self-directed learning, a postevaluation survey of participant satisfaction, and semistructured participant interviews.

Results: Thirty four (N = 34) participants completed the 360-degree assessment, and 22 participants took part in two coaching meetings. Respondents reported significant improvement to aspects of their readiness for self-directed learning ( P <.05), including knowing about learning strategies to achieve key learning goals, knowing about resources to support one's own learning, and being able to evaluate one's learning outcomes. Overall, respondents felt empowered to "reflect" on their practices, affirm what they were doing well, and, for some, identify opportunities for further and ongoing professional development.

Discussion: MSF and peer coaching emerged as key elements in enabling reflective practice by facilitating reflection on one's practice and conversations with one's peers to affirm strengths and opportunities for strengthening practice through self-directed professional development.