Implementing Peer Evaluation Forms to Enhance Presentation Skills in the Radiation Oncology Journal Clubs

Abstract

Effective presentation skills are a cornerstone of medical professionalism, contributing to career progression, patient education, and the dissemination of research findings. However, Non-Consultant Hospital Doctors (NCHDs) often face barriers to receiving structured feedback, which is critical for skill development. In the Radiation Oncology Department at Cork University Hospital, we observed that 72.7% of NCHDs identified the absence of structured feedback forms as the main obstacle to providing constructive critique, despite 100% agreeing that such tools would improve presentation quality.

To address this gap, we implemented a Quality Improvement Project (QIP), introducing peer evaluation forms into journal clubs. Using a Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) framework, we tested the intervention across two cycles. In Cycle 1, following a presentation on clinical research (August 2024), evaluation forms were distributed, assessing slide design, coherence, clarity, delivery, and engagement. Of attendees (36.4%), half completed the forms. In Cycle 2 (September 2024), attendance rose slightly to 45%, with 60% form completion.