Implementing and evaluating an e-portfolio for postgraduate family medicine training in the Western Cape, South Africa

Family and Emergency Medicine: Family Medicine and Primary CareThesis (MFamMed)--Stellenbosch University, 2018.ENGLISH SUMMARY: Background: In South Africa it is compulsory to submit a portfolio of learning to qualify for the national exit exam of the College of Family Physicians of South Africa to qualify as a family physician. A paper-based portfolio has been implemented thus far and the need for an electronic portfolio (e-portfolio) was identified. Aim: To describe and evaluate the implementation of an e-portfolio for the training of family medicine registrars in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Methods: Mixed methods were used. A quasi-experimental study compared paper- and e-portfolios and semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 11 information rich respondents. Quantitative data was captured from the paper portfolios of registrars in 2015 and compared with the e-portfolios of registrars in 2016. Results: Most respondents found the e-portfolio easier to use and more accessible. It made progress easier to monitor and provided sufficient evidence of learning. Feedback was made easier and more explicit. There were concerns regarding face-to-face feedback being negatively affected. It was suggested to have a feedback template to further improve feedback. There was a statistically significant improvement in general feedback from the paper portfolio in 2015 to the e-portfolio in 2016. Although not statistically significant, there was an increase in the usage of the e-portfolio, compared to the paper portfolio. Conclusion: The e-portfolio is an improvement on the paper-based portfolio. It is easier to access, more user-friendly and less cumbersome. It makes feedback and monitoring of progress and development of registrars easier and more visible and provides sufficient evidence of learning. Its implementation throughout South Africa is recommended.AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Geen opsomming beskikbaar.Master