Key messages

Assessment of learning needs is a process by which gaps in a learner’s knowledge and/or skills are identified.

This process includes knowledge of the curricular learning outcomes appropriate to the stage of training. It also includes reflection and self-assessment of current performance against expected performance, seeking external feedback from peers, supervisors and patients where necessary to identify areas where personal development might be required.

Identifying learning needs at the start of a placement and supporting trainees to develop a PDP with SMART learning objectives can be used to assess progress periodically and at the end of the placement in terms of achieving the learning needs identified.

Didactic teaching can encourage dependence on supervisors to achieve learning needs that could be addressed through other learning opportunities in the workplace.

Questioning techniques can be used within supervision sessions to enable and support students and trainees to become self-directed learners.