Engaging Future Clinical Oncology Researchers: An Initiative to Integrate Teaching of Biostatistics and Research Methodology into Specialty Training

• Published in: Clinical oncology (Royal College of Radiologists (Great Britain)) 2016-05, Vol.28 (5), p.306-316
• Main Authors: Turner, S, Sundaresan, P, Mann, K, Pryor, D, Gebski, V, Shaw, T
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biostatistics; Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Medicine; Humans; medical education; Medical Oncology - education; oncology; Radiology; Research Design; Research Personnel - education; Surveys and Questionnaires; training
• ISSN: 0936-6555; 1433-2981
• DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2015.12.003

Abstract Aims To evaluate the learner's perspectives on a novel workshop programme designed to improve skills in biostatistics, research methodology and critical appraisal in oncology. Materials and methods Trainees were surveyed anonymously at the completion of each annual workshop from 2012 to 2015. In total, 103 trainees in years 2–4 of training in radiation oncology responded, giving a 94% survey response rate. A 1 day workshop, designed by biostatisticians and radiation oncologist facilitators, is the central component of a programme teaching skills in biostatistics, research methods and critical appraisal. This links short didactic lectures about statistical concepts to interactive trainee discussions around discipline-related publications. Results The workshop was run in conjunction with the major radiation oncology clinical trials group meeting with alternating programmes (A and B). Most of the participants (44–47/47 for A and 48–55/56 for B), reported that their understanding of one or more individual topics improved as a result of teaching. Refinement of the workshop over time led to a more favourable perception of the ‘optimal’ balance between didactic/interactive teaching: nine of 27 (33%) ‘optimal’ responses seen in 2013 compared with 23 of 29 (79%) in 2015 ( P