A recent survey (free sign-up for report) was designed to learn more about (1) whether face-to-face training still has participant value for the continuing medical education (CME) industry; (2) whether CME organizations are creating blended solutions of online and face-to-face training; and what challenges organizations are having with producing materials for face-to-face training events.
The survey respondents consisted of those directly involved in creating and organizing the CME course offerings for their organizations. 79% of respondents were Directors, Managers or Coordinators of medical education/certification.
The survey found that CME provider organizations place a high value on providing their members the opportunity for face-to-face classroom instruction. In fact, over 98% of organizations surveyed deliver CME education via a classroom-style setting. Of those organizations, 54% offered programs only in a face-to-face environment, with no online offering. This was not entirely surprising since 93% of respondents indicated face-to-face training provides a valuable or extremely valuable experience for their members.
Less than 2% offered CME training in an online-only environment. 44% offered a blended solution, face-to-face training with an online component. The online component is often used to further enhance the face-to-face experience, not necessarily replace the training.
The survey indicated that face-to-face training remains a valuable learning environment, not only because of the networking and collaborative learning that occurs, but because of the quality of the printed materials delivered on-site. Of the printed materials, a participant workbook or study guide was the most often produced item. Nearly 60% of respondents indicated they produce participant manuals.
Providing CME content did not come without some challenges. Survey participants outlined their top three challenges as:
- 71% – Managing costs
- 69% – Managing content revisions
- 62% – Deciding what quantities to produce
Ultimately, the survey concluded that green initiatives, technology and younger demographics will continue to challenge organizations to create more online training and that organizations have to balance costs versus benefits.
The survey indicated that face-to-face training remains a valuable learning environment, not only because of the networking and collaborative learning that occurs, but because of the quality of the printed materials delivered on-site. Of the printed materials, a participant workbook or study guide was the most often produced item. Nearly 60% of respondents indicated they produce participant manuals.