Benefits and Drawbacks of learner handover: A Scoping Review
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Date
2021-08-13
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Abstract
Introduction: Learner Handover (LH), modelled after Patient Handover Protocols, is the act of collecting data regarding different
aspects of student performance, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses so that it can be presented to future teachers as an added
aide in planning their teaching activities. It has recently gained popularity due to its application in Competency-Based Medical
Education (CBME). This scoping review aimed to consolidate current knowledge regarding the usage, benefits and drawbacks of
Learner Handover and to highlight areas for future research.
Method: The Arksey and O’Malley framework was used to systematically select and summarize the literature available. Articles
relevant to Medical Education were selected from searches of two databases and one search engine. Only articles published after 2017
to ensure the most recent developments were accounted for. Data was analysed thematically and quantitatively.
Results: Out of the 12 articles reviewed, 46% usage of the Learner Handover revolved around smoothening out the UGME-PGME
transition. 39% studies focused on the assessment of students and talked about the use of Learner Handover as a teaching aide. The
most common benefits were a) Tailored Learning Environment, b) Programme Preparedness, and Improved Patient Safety whereas
the drawbacks most mentioned revolved around a) Generation of bias, b) Resource intensiveness, and c) Breach of confidentiality.
Conclusion: Learner Handover is a multifaceted process that provides performance information to future faculty, establishing a
continuum that can map out the longitudinal improvements of medical students. However, there are major drawbacks – like generation
of academic bias and breach of confidentiality - that need to be controlled. Additional research is needed to fully understand the
efficacy of the benefits and the extent of the drawbacks. However, in the Competency-Based Educational Model, a well-designed
Handover Protocol may prove integral.