Methodology for the improvement of undergraduate training tutors

Abstract

Tutors are the keystone of the training of medical students. The acquisition of the necessary knowledge, skills and responsibilities to play efficiently the role they are intended to play, and the level of satisfaction of the students within the process, depend to a great extend on their dedication and training. Methods: A development research was conducted with the aim of designing a methodology for the improvement of undergraduate training tutors, which would allow a training process of excellence for medical students. The methodology was primarily qualitative. Several procedures were used, for instance, the opinions of tutors and methodological advisors, interviews with tutors and students, the results of provincial and national teacher inspections, during the academic year 2011-2012, and  bibliographical and document reviews. Results: There is a conceptualization about how a training tutor should be at the Medical University of Villa Clara, according to the prevailing philosophical trend. It was found that the current situation regarding tutoring presents difficulties that may influence the acquisition of the practical skills and habits intended to be achieved by the medical graduate. Conclusions:  As a result of the research, a methodology for the improvement of tutors was developed.  It would contribute to the vision the Medical University of Villa Clara has for undergraduate training tutors.