As is the case in any burgeoning field, research within the field of psychiatric patient education is still in development. Many of the current studies are not rigorously controlled. Most programs follow several common processes that together can be identified as an educational or psychoeducational model. The goal of education is to impart knowledge and, in some cases, to teach skills. Many programs refer to their groupings as classes or courses rather than groups, although some are called educational or psychoeducational groups .
Many providers use a classroom mode for educational interventions with groups of consumers.
In many cases, the program awards a certificate of completion like that received by professionals following a continuing education event. Most providers have done little assessment of either student outcomes or program efficacy. It is clear that evaluation is becoming more prominent with the growth of the field. Recently, there has been tremendous growth in the availability of such educational aids as videotapes, books, brochures and board games. Prior to this, most providers had to construct their own media.