Defining and measuring educational competence of hospital-based registered dietitians in Japan: development and validation of a self-assessment scale

Abstract

Background: Educational skills are extremely important for registered dietitians who guide juniors in hospitals. However, a standardized evaluation method has not been established in Japan. The present study aimed to define the components of registered dietitians' teaching competence and to develop and validate a self-rating scale for measuring it.
Methods: From July to August 2022, a cross-sectional study was conducted among registered dietitians who worked in facilities with more than 200 beds and had experience in teaching juniors and subordinates. A self-administered questionnaire was collected from 1,215 people (response rate 67.2%).
Results: As a result of exploratory and validative factor analysis, a final scale consisting of 29 items was developed across five factors: personality traits, teaching skills, interpersonal skills, knowledge and professional skills, and involvement in education. The Cronback had a α coefficient of 0.92, indicating high reliability. Validity was supported by fit indicators (standardized residual root mean square = 0.05, approximation root mean square error = 0.06, comparative fit index = 0.90).
Discussion: The present study defined the components of registered dietitians' teaching competence and developed a self-assessment tool with reliability and validity. This measure may support professional development, enhance registered dietitian training programs, and serve as a model for teaching competency frameworks in other health professions.