Faculty Collaboration Database

Reimagining Medical Educator Development: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of KinetiC3, A Longitudinal, Character-Integrated Teaching Academy. South Med J 2026 Apr 03;119(4):179-184

Date

04/19/2026

Pubmed ID

41999645

DOI

10.14423/SMJ.0000000000001958

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-105035972808 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Medical educators often navigate professional isolation, identity dissonance, and limited institutional support, despite strong motivation for growth. KinetiC3 is a year-long cohort-based educator enrichment program that integrates character education with pedagogical development, informed by theories of transformative learning, self-determination, and social identity.

METHODS: We conducted a mixed-methods evaluation of 173 participants from 2018 to 2024. Quantitative data were drawn from retrospective review of demographic and professional milestones. Semistructured group interviews (n=16) explored participants' experiences and perceptions of program impact.

RESULTS: Quantitative career mapping revealed professional advancement, including promotion and entry into educator leadership roles. Thematic analysis of interview data identified five themes: role evolution through transformative educator identity development; recognition and application of character strengths reinforcing professional values and purpose; advancement into formal and informal leadership roles; cohort-based, cross-disciplinary collaboration supporting peer mentorship and sustained engagement; and benefit of longitudinal character-integrated enrichment in fostering professional fulfillment.

CONCLUSIONS: This study captures the need to reimagine educator development beyond traditional skill-based programs. KinetiC3's longitudinal, values-driven model supports motivation, confidence, and a strengthened sense of belonging within the educational community. Institutions aiming to retain and empower educators should invest in structured, character-integrated development programs.

Author List

Kaljo K, Tubbs A, Harrington AM, Dondlinger V, Syam D, Farkas AH

Authors

Amy H. Farkas MD, MS Associate Professor in the Medicine department at Medical College of Wisconsin
Alexandra M. Harrington MD Professor in the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine department at Medical College of Wisconsin

MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Faculty, Medical
Female
Humans
Leadership
Male
Program Evaluation
Retrospective Studies
Staff Development