Council for Excellence in Education (CEE) Faculty Development Workgroup: Survey Insights and Strategic Support for Health Information Educators

Health information educators play a critical role in shaping the future of healthcare by equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate an increasingly complex health information landscape. Recognizing the evolving challenges and opportunities within health information education, the Council for Excellence in Education (CEE) Faculty Development Workgroup has conducted a comprehensive survey to assess educators' needs, identify key areas of support, and develop strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening health information instruction. This article marks the first in a new series, The Classroom Chronicles: Voices of HI Educators, which will share insights from the survey and highlight ongoing efforts to enhance support for health information educators. Through this series, the Workgroup aims to cultivate continued dialogue, transparency, and collaboration while enhancing AHIMA’s support to the professional development of HI education faculty.

Survey Findings: Addressing Educators' Priorities

The survey, distributed among health information faculty members, sought to understand the current landscape of instructional methodologies, faculty experiences, and institutional support mechanisms. The survey was distributed to over 4,000 registered health information educators, with 155 responses received. While this represents a small sample of the larger educator community, the feedback provided offers valuable insights into current needs and priorities and reinforces the importance of continuing this dialogue. Key insights from the survey revealed several pressing concerns and opportunities:

1. Curriculum Development and Standardization
   Faculty members expressed a need for updated and standardized curriculum frameworks that align with the latest industry developments. Many emphasized the importance of incorporating emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and interoperability into coursework.
2. Professional Development and Training
   Survey respondents highlighted a growing demand for professional development opportunities, particularly in areas such as digital health records, compliance regulations, and pedagogical advancements. Educators indicated a need for more accessible workshops, webinars, and certification programs to enhance their expertise.
3. Student Engagement and Practical Experience
   A significant portion of faculty reported challenges in maintaining student engagement, particularly in remote learning environments. Calls for increased access to real-world case studies, internship opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences were prevalent.
4. Institutional Support and Resource Allocation
   Many educators identified gaps in institutional support, including limited funding for research initiatives and insufficient access to instructional technology. Faculty members emphasized the importance of advocacy for enhanced resources, ensuring educators can effectively teach and innovate.

Strategic Support Initiatives

Based on these survey findings, the CEE Faculty Workgroup has developed several strategic initiatives to address educators' needs and support their professional growth:

• Build Brand and Increase Influence: AHIMA is focused on reinforcing our role as the globally recognized authority on health information to support and advance the profession. Through strategic partnerships and targeted advocacy efforts, we are focused on amplifying our influence, expanding our reach, and creating new opportunities to shape policy, promote the profession, and lead the transformation of healthcare through the power of trusted information.
  • Advocacy for Institutional Support: The workgroup will advise faculty on how to engage with educational institutions to secure funding and resources aimed at improving the teaching landscape for health information educators.
  • Student-Centered Learning Enhancements: New strategies will be implemented to facilitate interactive learning, mentorship programs, and experiential education opportunities.
• Elevate and Broaden the Profession: AHIMA is committed to elevating and broadening the profession to ensure health information professionals are prepared to lead and adapt to the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthening partnerships, and aligning competencies with industry needs, we will ensure health information professionals have a central role in shaping the future of healthcare.
  • Curriculum Innovation Task Force: A dedicated team will work on updating curriculum guidelines to reflect the latest industry trends, ensuring relevance and efficacy in health information education.
  • Ongoing Faculty Development Programs: Regular training sessions and collaborative learning experiences will be introduced to provide faculty with essential skills and knowledge.
• As the landscape of health information continues to evolve, the CEE Faculty Workgroup remains committed to fostering a collaborative and forward-thinking environment for educators. We invite all health information faculty to engage with upcoming faculty development opportunities, contribute to curriculum innovation efforts, and explore new strategies for enhancing student learning experiences. We also encourage educators to participate in future feedback opportunities, including surveys, so your voices continue to help shape the development of resources and initiatives that support teaching excellence across the profession.

The CEE Workgroup is pleased to announce the upcoming release of a four-part article series in the Journal of AHIMA, scheduled to run from September through December. This series will address key themes identified through recent survey feedback, offering insight and practical perspectives across the following topics:

1. Workplace Readiness
2. Educator Support and Development
3. Program Strategy and Vision
4. Resources and Tools

These articles are intended to foster continued dialogue and support within the HIM community. Get ready for a transformative series! This fall, the CEE Workgroup is launching an exclusive four-part series in the Journal of AHIMA. From September to December, we're tackling the topics you care about most—from boosting workplace readiness to shaping the future vision of our programs. Prepare to gain cutting-edge insights and practical tools to elevate your impact in the HIM community!

Article by Brittani Moberly, MBA, RHIA, CCS, CDIP, CPHIMS, Eastern Kentucky University; Jillian Harrington, EdD, MHA, CCS, CCS-P, CPC, CPC-I, CEMC, University of Central Florida; Alicia M. Watts, PhD, MBA, CPHIMS, RHIA, William Carey University; Cathy A. Flite, PhD, FAHIMA, RHIA, Temple University; JLynn Jennifer Brown, MSL, RHIA, CPCO, CDEI, CPB, CMRS, CMCS, AHI (AMT), RMA (AMT), HITCM-PP, Neosho County Community College; Joanna Ward, MA, RHIA, FAHIMA, Louisiana Tech University; and Jennifer Holland, MSML, RHIA, CCS, CPC, CEE Workgroup Chair.