Peer Learning Groups on Teaching Communication and Empathy

From October 2025 to May 2026, the Swiss–Ukrainian project «Medical Education Development» is conducting a peer-learning workshop on teaching communication and empathy for educators from medical universities, nursing schools and hospitals, as well as for practicing doctors and nurses.

The participation in the peer learning groups will provide each participant with space for horizontal learning and peer support, teamwork with colleagues from different institutions, guidance from trained facilitators, as well as practical tools for teaching communication and empathy, accompanied by the printed manual “Empathy and Humanity in Healthcare: A Guide for Educators.”

How will the workshop work?

1. It will follow the peer group principle, becoming a space where educators, practitioners, and newcomers can learn together, share experiences, and support one another in implementing patient-centered medicine.
2. A total of four groups will be created, each consisting of around 15 participants.
3. Each group will have two facilitators — an educator and a practitioner — who have received special training in facilitation and adult learning.
4. Every participant registers for a specific group. You can review the facilitators’ list via this link. Please note: You may not be assigned to your first-choice group, but we will do our best to accommodate your preferences. If you know one of the facilitators in your organization well, we recommend choosing another group — this way, you will benefit more from new contacts and approaches.
5. The workshop will be held in the format of monthly online meetings (approximately 2 hours each). The group members and facilitators will agree upon the time and day at the beginning of the workshop.
6. It is essential to be prepared to actively participate and consistently contribute to the group, including using your camera, completing assignments, and engaging in discussions.

What does participation in the workshop offer?

• A space for horizontal learning and professional support;
• Opportunities for teamwork with colleagues from different institutions;
• Guidance and mentorship from trained facilitators;
• Practical tools for teaching communication and empathy;
• A printed handbook “Empathy and Humanity in Healthcare: A Guide for Educators” (the electronic version is available here).

The workshop is designed for those who strive to foster empathy, humanity, and the quality of communication in medical education.