Faculty development
AO’s faculty development programs are designed specifically for our faculty, blending practical teaching strategies with evidence-informed best practices. What sets AO apart is its commitment to faculty excellence—investing in surgeon-led education grounded in adult learning principles, aligned with global standards, and delivered through engaging blended and hands-on formats.
Faculty development at AO supports a clear pathway—from preparing new faculty for their first teaching roles to supporting those taking on leadership in education. Through this structured and progressive approach, faculty are empowered to grow in confidence, effectiveness, and impact—ensuring consistently high-quality learning experiences across all AO activities.
New learning modules – accessible to all AO members
We’re excited to launch three new standalone online modules created for all AO members who contribute to education. These short, focused learning experiences are ideal for building confidence and sharpening your teaching approach—explore them at your own pace, whenever it suits you.
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Feedback essentials moduleFind out how feedback can develop your learners and build your own constructive feedback skills.Register now |
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Principles of teaching and learning moduleGrasp the basics of how adults learn, and how you can use this knowledge to improve your teaching skills.Coming soon |
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Assessment and evaluation moduleGain the knowledge and skills to apply assessment and evaluation concepts to enhance your teaching.Coming soon |
Faculty development blended programs – by invitation through AO regions
AO’s faculty development programs are invitation-based, designed to ensure that all faculty—whether new or experienced—are equipped to meet the same high standards in teaching, feedback, and learner engagement. These standardized, blended programs are delivered across all AO regions by trained teams of surgeon educators and education specialists.
Through interactive workshops, peer exchange, and focused feedback, participants build their skills as teachers, coaches, course chairpersons, and education leaders. This deliberate and ongoing investment in our faculty is not only worthwhile—it’s essential to maintaining the quality and consistency of AO’s global education.
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Faculty Education Program (FEP)The FEP equips new faculty members who have an upcoming faculty assignment with the skills required to successfully give a lecture, facilitate a small group discussion, or run a practical exercise at an AO educational event. This program also introduces the participants to the "7 AO Principles of Education" and how they can be applied to the different teaching methods.Program duration: 5 weeks online—1.5 days face-to-face—1 week online. Program cost: free of charge to nominated participants |
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Chairperson Education Program (CEP)The CEP is targeted at experienced faculty members who have an upcoming chairperson assignment and already completed the FEP. The program introduces the principles of instructional design, faculty management, as well as assessment and evaluation.Program duration: 5 weeks online—1.5 days face-to-face—1 week online. Program cost: free of charge to nominated participants |
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Leader Education Program (LEP)The goal of the program is to teach important leadership skills to highly experienced faculty members and chairpersons who get elected into important governance or education roles. The program, through discussions and interactive exchange of knowledge and its practical application, will enable them to effectively lead and manage educational initiatives in the AO.Those participating in this program will be able to self-assess their leadership behaviors, apply models of such behavior to build and lead teams, facilitate change, advocate for education and enable continuous learning and improvement. Program duration: 5 weeks online—2 days face-to-face—ongoing Program cost: free of charge to nominated participants |
