Introducing trainees to research using an online, asynchronous course

Abstract

Introduction: Research is an important aspect of many students’ training. However, formal research training is rarely included in curricula. Thus, we developed an online, asynchronous series of modules to introduce trainees to multiple topics that are relevant to the conduct of research. Methods: Research 101 was utilized by first-year medical students and undergraduate students conducting mentored research projects. Students’ knowledge, confidence, and satisfaction were assessed using pre- and post-module surveys with five-point Likert scaled questions, open-ended text responses, and a final quiz. Results: Pre-module survey results showed that learners felt most confident with the Conducting a literature search and Race and racism in medicine modules and least confident with the Submitting an Institutional Review Board protocol at UC module. Post-module survey responses were significantly increased compared to pre-module results for all modules and questions (p < 0.0001). The response to “The content of this module met my needs” was endorsed across all modules (84.9% “yes” responses). A final quiz of 25 multiple-choice questions was completed by 92 participants who received a median score of 21. Content analysis of open-ended post-module survey responses identified several strengths and opportunities for improvement in course content and instructional methods. Conclusions: These data demonstrate that significant learning resulted from completion of Research 101, as post-module survey scores were significantly higher than pre-module survey scores for all modules and questions. Final quiz scores were positive but also highlighted opportunity for additional trainee learning and will guide evolution of future modules.

Development of an undergraduate certificate in clinical and translational science: improving competence of the clinical research workforce

“…Every semester, the workforce development core of our Center for Clinical and Translational Science and Training visits undergraduate courses across several programs to introduce students to CTS careers and training opportunities. Research 101 is an asynchronous research primer available to medical students and summer research students ( Blackard et al, 2022 ; 2023 ). Every summer, the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program awards research fellowships to 150 undergraduate students from UC and other institutions.…”