What should trainees be encouraged to do to develop their skills?

Encouraging trainees to engage with more experienced scribes is vital for skill development because it allows them to learn firsthand about best practices, effective techniques, and nuances that are often not found in textbooks or training materials. Experienced scribes can provide valuable feedback, offer insights into the workflow, and demonstrate practical applications of the concepts taught during training. This mentorship component fosters a collaborative learning environment where trainees can ask questions, seek clarification, and gain confidence as they observe and participate in real-world scenarios. It also helps build a supportive community that values ongoing education and improvement.

While practicing writing without supervision and working independently may contribute to skill acquisition, these approaches lack the immediate feedback necessary for effective learning. Taking notes during live patient interactions is beneficial but may not provide the same level of contextual understanding and guidance that a more experienced scribe can offer.