An exploration of the professional identity of clinical academics using repertory grid technique
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2022Access:
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Burke E, Misstear K, Hennessy M (2022) An exploration of the professional identity of clinical academics using repertory grid technique. PLoS ONE 17(11): e0277361Download Item:
Abstract:
Background:
Clinicians who divide their time between clinical work and research have contributed to
some of the most fundamental breakthroughs in medicine in recent history, yet their role is
not always well-understood or valued. Understanding the factors which contribute to career
success for clinical academics is critical for supporting this workforce. Social Cognitive
Career Theory (SCCT) provides a conceptual framework for career success, incorporating
personal and environmental factors.
Purpose:
The aim of this study is to explore clinical academics’ construal of successful clinical aca-
demic practice and to contribute to a holistic view of the professional identity of the clinical
academic.
Methodology:
Using a constructivist technique, repertory grid, the authors interviewed ten clinical academ-
ics at different career stages in one-to-one structured interviews conducted virtually
between November 2020 and April 2021. Data from the interviews were analysed qualita-
tively and quantitatively. Common themes were identified, analysed, and ranked according
to importance with respect to successful clinical academic practice. Using SCCT as a frame-
work, constructs were categorised as personal factors, organisational factors, competencies and person-environment fit. A differential analysis between established/trainee and
female/male participants was carried out.
Summary of results:
One hundred and thirty-three constructs were elicited and categorised into 20 themes (constructs). There was consensus among participants that 6 were of high importance with
respect to successful clinical academic practice, 8 of intermediate and 4 of low importance,
with no consensus on 2 constructs. Personal factors of high importance include innovation and integrity. Competencies including research and teaching skills are highly important, and
ability to collaborate is also considered central to successful clinical academic practice.
Female participants expressed greater concerns about the impact of familial responsibilities
on career progression.
Discussion and conclusions:
This study highlights the importance of interactions between the person and environment,
and characterises the important attributes of successful clinical academics including personal factors such as integrity and innovation.
Author's Homepage:
http://people.tcd.ie/mhennesshttp://people.tcd.ie/burkee11
Description:
PUBLISHED
Author: Burke, Elaine; Hennessy, Martina
Type of material:
Journal ArticleCollections
Series/Report no:
PLoS One;17;
11;
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Full text availableSubject (TCD):
Identities in Transformation , Medical Education , clinical academic careersDOI:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0277361Metadata
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