What is “mix” as it relates to certified education? It is the combination of a need, a learning style, and a desired outcome. 

Depending on the gap we are addressing, such as a knowledge gap versus a skill gap, how we develop education and the outcome we seek are variables that are customized to the educational intervention and learner. This table provides insight into how we determine the ideal mix in CME.

Need #1	Knowledge
Learning Style	Instructor-centered, lecture, Q&A
Outcome	Improvement in knowledge level
Need #2	Change in attitude, confidence, or beliefs
Learning Style	Learner-center, small group, point-of-care
Outcome	New way to look at a problem, new way to measure success/failure
Need #3	Skill
Learning Style	Problem-based, combination of lecture, group, and individual earning over time
Outcome	Change in a practitioner’s behavior
Need #4	Self-directed knowledge
Learning Style	Self-directed, manuscripts
Outcome	Improvement in knowledge