Portfolio-Associated Faculty: A Qualitative Analysis of Successful Behaviors from the Perspective of the Student

Purpose . While some aspects of what makes for an effective portfolio program are known, little is published about what students value in the faculty-student-portfolio relationship. Lack of student buy-in and faculty engagement can be significant challenges. The purpose of this study was to identify behaviors and types of engagement that students value in their relationships with portfolio-associated faculty. Methods . Medical students (174) participating in the Ohio State University College of Medicine Portfolio Program described behaviors observed in their portfolio-associated faculty in a survey completed at the end of the first year of their four-year program. Narrative responses were coded and categorized into themes, followed by member checking. Results . A total of 324 comments from 169 students were analyzed. Four themes were identified: (1) creating a supportive environment; (2) inspiring academic and professional growth; (3) investing time in students; and (4) providing advice and direction. Conclusions . The themes identified suggest that students value certain types of coaching and mentoring behaviors from their portfolio-associated faculty. The themes and their specific subcategories may be useful in making decisions regarding program development and guiding recruitment and training of these faculty coaches.