Developing a Short Course on the Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues of Biobanking Practice-A Participatory Action Research Study in South Africa.

Abstract

Introduction: There is a paucity of available training opportunities on the ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSI) of biobanking in South Africa and other low- and middle-income countries. For this purpose, an online short course was developed on the ELSI of biobanking practice. Study Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to review the short course to determine its relevance for identified stakeholders in biobanking practice in South Africa. Methods: This in-depth exploratory study was conducted using a qualitative approach. Two groups of volunteers were purposively identified for the review of the course. Group 1 (Biobanking group, n = 11) comprised researchers, biobankers, postgraduate students in biobanking research, and research ethics committee members. Group 2 (Curriculum group, n = 10) comprised academics with expertise in curriculum development and review who were invited to participate in the study. A separate online open-ended questionnaire was used to collect data from each group. Both questionnaires focused on the description of the module structure and coherence. In addition, participants in Group 2 were asked to comment on the assessment strategy used. Thematic analysis was conducted on the collected data. Summary of the Study Findings: The following themes were identified as strengths and shortcomings of the developed course and suggestions to improve both the content and delivery of the course. Participants were generally satisfied with the course design and structure. The module content was seen as being clear and aligned with the learning objectives. While the course structure was seen as easy to follow, some respondents did express difficulty in navigating through the modules while others experienced varying online technical problems. The general opinion was that the assessment strategy was consistent with the course aim and objectives. Conclusion: Study participants responded positively to this course and provided constructive criticism to improve the educational offering.