Exploring My Teaching Journey: An e-Portfolio of Medical Education and Growth

Welcome to my e-Portfolio for Interprofessional Applied Practical Teaching and Learning in the Health Professions. This platform serves as a reflection of my journey as a medical educator and family physician, highlighting my teaching philosophy, experiences, and ongoing commitment to fostering meaningful learning in clinical practice.

A younger me, embarking on a journey in Irish medical education (c. 2014) at the Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare, Ireland

My name is Justin McNish, and I am a family physician, husband, and father of three girls, currently working out of an office practice in Milton, Ontario. I am now 5 years into practice, having completed my medical education in Ireland and my residency training in Family Medicine at the University of Toronto. I am in the process of completing a Master's degree in Public Health in the Family and Community Medicine - Advanced Standing program.

As a healthcare professional working in a busy community-based practice, I have the privilege of teaching in a dynamic, real-world setting where learning must be efficient, adaptable, and directly applicable to patient care. My approach to education is rooted in mentorship, hands-on learning, and the belief that each learner brings unique experiences and perspectives to the table. Guided by the principles of experiential learning, problem-based learning, and adult education theories, I strive to create an environment that encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and lifelong professional growth.

This e-Portfolio showcases my commitment to interprofessional education, emphasizing how I integrate Kolb’s experiential learning cycle, Piaget’s constructivist theory, and Knowles’ adult learning principles into my teaching. It also highlights my belief in the principle of parsimony, ensuring that learning is clear, focused, and practical for real-world application. By tailoring my teaching to meet learners where they are, I aim to bridge knowledge gaps, promote self-directed learning, and facilitate meaningful, memorable educational experiences in a non-prescriptive and supportive manner.

Through this e-Portfolio, I invite you to explore my teaching philosophy, book reviews, and reflections on the intersection of healthcare and education. My hope is that it provides insight into my approach to teaching and inspires thoughtful discussion on effective learning in the health professions.