Collaborative learning in the digital age: empowering tuberculosis researchers through virtual training.

IF 1.6 Q2 EDUCATION, SCIENTIFIC DISCIPLINES
Anzaan Dippenaar,Taime Sylvester,Christopher Ealand,Nabila Ismail,Niaina Rakotosamimanana,Michele Miller,Bavesh D Kana,Rob M Warren,
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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Integrating whole genome sequencing (WGS) of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex into routine care, surveillance, and research in high tuberculosis burden settings remains challenging due to limited resources and skills. While technological platforms for scaling WGS are emerging, scaling wet lab and analytic components often depends on partnerships where such skills have been established. To address this, a virtual training program was developed. Over 12 weeks, 21 trainees from five Southern African institutes engaged in learning from curated theoretical content and interactive virtual meetings with experienced instructors. The training program, developed by a diverse team of experts in molecular biology, biomedical research, microbiology, and tuberculosis research, provided comprehensive coverage aligned with the latest advancements. Teaching strategies included interactive mentor-led sessions and real-time feedback, together with facilitated knowledge exchange and understanding. The virtual training program yielded several successes. Of note, trainees submitted three scientific articles for peer review, based on their acquired knowledge and its application in research. The program also fostered collaborations on Mycobacterium tuberculosis WGS among participants, showcasing the potential for networking and future joint projects. While the virtual training program encountered challenges related to the pandemic, limited resources, trainee engagement, and language barriers, these were creatively mitigated. To improve future training sessions, a platform assessing participant engagement and information retention is recommended. Wider collaborative efforts among experts and institutions in collating resources will lead to more comprehensive training programs. Addressing challenges such as internet connectivity issues and language barriers is crucial for ensuring inclusivity and enhancing the overall learning experience. In conclusion, the virtual training program successfully provided knowledge and skill training in WGS to trainees, leading to scientific article submissions and collaborations. Furthermore, content creators benefited from improved science communication and training opportunities.
数字时代的协作学习:通过虚拟培训增强结核病研究人员的能力。
由于资源和技能有限,将结核分枝杆菌复合体的全基因组测序(WGS)纳入结核病高负担地区的日常护理、监测和研究工作仍具有挑战性。虽然扩大 WGS 规模的技术平台正在出现,但扩大湿实验室和分析组件的规模往往取决于已建立此类技能的合作伙伴关系。为此,我们开发了一个虚拟培训计划。在为期 12 周的时间里,来自南部非洲 5 个研究所的 21 名受训人员参与学习了精心策划的理论内容,并与经验丰富的讲师进行了互动式虚拟会议。该培训计划由分子生物学、生物医学研究、微生物学和结核病研究领域的不同专家团队开发,提供了与最新进展相一致的全面内容。教学策略包括导师主导的互动课程和实时反馈,以及促进知识交流和理解。虚拟培训计划取得了多项成果。值得一提的是,学员们根据所学知识及其在研究中的应用,提交了三篇科学文章供同行评审。该计划还促进了学员之间在结核分枝杆菌 WGS 方面的合作,展示了联网和未来联合项目的潜力。虽然虚拟培训计划遇到了与大流行病、有限资源、学员参与和语言障碍有关的挑战,但这些挑战都得到了创造性的缓解。为了改进今后的培训课程,建议建立一个平台,评估学员的参与情况和信息保留情况。专家和机构之间在整理资源方面更广泛的合作将促成更全面的培训计划。应对互联网连接问题和语言障碍等挑战对于确保包容性和提升整体学习体验至关重要。总之,虚拟培训计划成功地为学员提供了 WGS 方面的知识和技能培训,促成了科学文章的提交和合作。此外,内容创作者也从更好的科学交流和培训机会中受益。
本文章由计算机程序翻译,如有差异,请以英文原文为准。
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来源期刊
Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education
Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education EDUCATION, SCIENTIFIC DISCIPLINES-
CiteScore
3.00
自引率
26.30%
发文量
95
审稿时长
22 weeks
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