Experiences of young audiologists on continuing professional development in the private sector in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Abstract

Background Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is an ongoing learning process that builds on initial training and education and is dedicated to improving competency. Low compliance rates of audiologists adhering to CPD have been reported by the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA). However, there is an absence of research on CPD from the perspective of audiologists working in the private sector. Furthermore, the low compliance rates need to be investigated to establish the barriers that audiologists encounter as well as possible interventions to improve their participation. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has triggered unprecedented disruptions that impacted the CPD of healthcare professionals. Audiologists encountered unique challenges amidst the pandemic, necessitating swift adaptations and innovations in their CPD practices. While considerable literature has been published about the shift of education systems to online platforms during the pandemic, less is known about its impact on the CPD of young privatesector audiologists. Methods A descriptive, qualitative research approach was adopted, with semi-structured online interviews being conducted with 11 audiologists practicing in the private sector in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. Purposive sampling was employed followed by a snowball technique. The five concepts of Andragogy were used as a conceptual and analytical framework thereafter the study relied on deductive thematic analysis. Results The participants' CPD experiences aligned with the five key concepts of andragogy, including selfconcept, adult learning experiences, readiness to learn, orientation to learning, and internal motivation. Eight sub-themes emerged, reflecting aspects such as personal accountability, informal learning, educational requirements, interprofessional development, improved clinical skills, and the influence of fear of consequences. The study illuminated the dual impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the CPD activities of young audiologists. While the pandemic introduced significant disruptions to traditional CPD modalities, it also spurred innovative adaptations, particularly the shift to online learning platforms. This shift led to positive changes such as increased flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and diverse learning opportunities. However, it also posed challenges, including isolation and networking issues, uncertain quality assurance, and limited interactivity. Three primary barriers to CPD participation were identified: 1) personal, 2) financial, and 3) structural. These barriers highlighted the multifaceted challenges that audiologists encounter in maintaining and enhancing their professional competencies. Participants also provided valuable recommendations for overcoming these barriers, emphasizing the need for more flexible, accessible, and supportive CPD structures that cater to the specific needs of audiologists in the private sector. Conclusion Statutory bodies need to draw on the experiences of young audiologists during the planning and implementation of CPD for it to be effective and purposeful. The COVID-19 pandemic had a lasting impact on the CPD journeys of young audiologists in the private sector. While presenting formidable challenges, including disrupting traditional learning modalities, the pandemic also catalyzed innovations and adaptations within the profession through the predominance of online learning. Understanding their experiences and implementing strategies to address the barriers will enable the active engagement of private sector audiologists in their continued education.