In pursuit of expertise - Toward an educational model for expertise development

Firstly, the many characteristics of expertise are examined: they include aspects of pattern recognition, knowledge, skill, flexibility, metacognitive monitoring, available cognitive space and teaching abilities. Secondly, three educational models from different domains ( Nursing, Surgical Education, Education) are analysed, compared and contrasted, in relation to both educational approach and the development of expertise. Thirdly, a new model for the development of expertise is proposed, incorporating aspects of each of the three previously discussed models. Within this new model, four phases of development are proposed, culminating in the achievement of expertise. Furthermore, it is noted that under certain circumstances performance can deteriorate, and that with appropriate support, there can be recursion back through earlier phases of development. Significant implications for both healthcare education and practice are discussed, in relation to concepts of expertise, potential educational approaches and the proposed model for the development of expertise.