Creating meaning through small doses of actionable learning: A mixed methods analysis of CAP-ACP’S virtual CME activities

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic overwhelmed pathology services, halting routine case reviews and disrupting resident training. In response, the Canadian Association of Pathologists – Association canadienne des pathologistes (CAP-ACP) launched virtual one-hour webinars, allowing pathologists to learn while working and ensuring residents remained exposed to essential cases despite pandemic constraints. Methods: Using a convergent mixed-methods design, data from 115 post-session evaluation surveys were analyzed. Participants included pathologists and pathologists’ assistants, with 93% of responses from Canada. Quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed separately. Qualitative analysis employed an inductive thematic approach using a codebook, with member checking completed by two pathologists. Results: High satisfaction with the learning activities was reported. Three main themes emerged: participants viewed the webinars as accessible, engaging, and impactful; the learning was actionable and relevant to daily practice – improving report writing, data interpretation, diagnostic accuracy, and tissue handling – while also equipping lecturers to teach effectively online; and pathology at a crossroads. Quantitative responses showed that 80% felt the webinar enhanced their competence, but only 66% believed it would impact patient outcomes, suggesting a disconnect between their work and its perceived clinical impact. The webinars reminded pathologists of the clinical significance of their work and reflected a desire to connect more with colleagues through multidisciplinary collaboration. There was also a strong call to engage leadership in addressing burnout as a shared responsibility. Webinar platforms can support both skill-building and meaningful professional dialogue. Discussion: The results highlight the multifaceted value of virtual continuing medical education: enhancing diagnostic, teaching, and leadership skills while helping pathologists reconnect with meaning and purpose in their work. As the profession navigates post-pandemic challenges, webinar platforms offer a scalable tool to support clinical competence, collaboration, and engagement with systemic issues such as burnout and professional identity.