Using evaluation research to improve medical education.

BACKGROUND: Evaluation research is a form of applied research that scrutinises how well a particular programme, practice, procedure or policy is operating. Evaluation researchers use both quantitative and qualitative research data to construct a collective picture of the programme under evaluation. CONTEXT: Medical educators need to provide information about a particular programme using the methods of evaluation research in order to make a decision on the potential adoption, improvements and refinements of the programme. Improving curricula and pedagogical methods using these methods may enhance health care education. INNOVATION: We provide an overview of the methods of evaluation research in the context of medical education. We discuss the application, general methodology, methods of collecting data and analysis for each type of evaluation research. IMPLICATIONS: The methods of evaluation research described in this article enable medical educators to gain a comprehensive understanding of evaluation research in the context of medical education. The use of evaluation research findings helps medical educators to make informed decisions regarding a programme and any future actions related to it. © Blackwell Publishing Ltd 2010.