Abstract
ABSTRACT
Introduction
Clinical teaching fellows (CTFs) are an increasingly important part of undergraduate medical education in the United Kingdom. Despite their valuable and uniquely multifaceted role, research investigating the qualities that make an effective CTF is limited. This study aimed to identify and compare the views of stakeholder groups regarding the most important qualities of CTFs.
Methods
We conducted a single‐centre mixed‐methods study at a large UK teaching hospital. An online questionnaire was distributed to clinical medical students (years 3–5), CTFs, administrative staff and faculty. Data were collected via Likert scales, asking respondents to rank qualities and teaching experiences and free‐text responses.
Results
Quantitative analysis (
n
= 43) identified friendliness, being knowledgeable and an engaging teaching style as the most valued qualities. Prior experience of conducting bedside teaching and small‐group tutorials was prioritised, with postgraduate teaching qualifications and specialist knowledge ranked as least important. Medical students valued professionalism and teamwork significantly less than other groups (
p
Conclusions
This study highlights commonalities and differences regarding the interpersonal skills and teaching experiences that are central to effective CTFs. These findings have important implications for recruitment, training and professional development of CTFs, ensuring alignment with the needs of stakeholders and addressing perceived disparities between groups.