Medical Education Scholars Program: an approach to development of scholars in education in Tehran University of Medical Sciences

Objectives: Medical Education Scholars Program (MESP) has been implemented with the aim of creating and enhancing the knowledge and skills of educational leaders and faculty members, as well as providing the basis for the development of training in academic departments at Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Methods: The program planned for this 8-month course was offered in two sections. Fourteen faculty members participated in the two courses. The first part, which was a once-a-week workshop, included a 3-day workshop on “how to write a developmental proposal in education” and a 3-day “educational leadership” workshop. In the second part, which was a half-day course, was allocated to presenting the project progress report, the educational journal club, the workshops requested by participants on educational leadership, individual studies and counseling with mentors. Results: In a poll, it was concluded that participants were satisfied with the curriculum of MESP and expressed that the program could not only expand their knowledge and skills on how to manage change and educational leadership, but also improve their viewpoint in this regard. Conclusion: MESP can enhance the faculty members’ knowledge and skills in their educational leadership and scholarly activities as a teacher, and increase their accountability as an educational leader. It seems that holding this program and similar programs is essential to improve the quality of education and educational leadership at universities.