Saying YES to Careers in Cancer Research: A Collaborative Model for Evaluating and Improving a Cancer Education and Research Program.

Abstract

The Case Comprehensive Cancer Center's Youth Enjoy Science (YES) Program is funded by the National Cancer Institute to promote broad interest in pursuing a career in biomedical research via early intervention strategies that inspire student interest, help envision research as a career path, and strengthen practical research and career skills. A major aspect of the YES program is an 8-week immersion into cancer center faculty laboratories to conduct a cancer research project over the summer. The overall goal is to excite students to consider a future career in biomedical research or healthcare to enhance the future cancer-focused workforce. To ensure the YES program is meeting its goals and providing an exceptional experience for students, an external evaluation team performs an annual evaluation that incorporates a mixed methods approach combining mechanisms for formal and informal feedback. The team shares key insights with program leadership, faculty, and student representatives to ensure that all feedback directly informs program adjustments. This approach emphasizes actionable results rather than passive data collection, reinforcing the program's commitment to continuous quality improvement. Formal surveys suggest the program has been consistently meeting its goals of increasing student understanding of cancer biology and research. However, a recent reduction in survey response rates makes it challenging to determine whether survey respondents are primarily those with the most positive experiences. Integrating both formal and informal feedback mechanisms in program evaluation is essential for capturing the full range of student experiences. Thus, it is critical that training programs provide a channel for informal discussions. The YES program coordinator maintains close relationships with all stakeholders and is deeply familiar with student participants, from the application process to ongoing program activities. As an approachable and engaged leader, the coordinator effectively gathers feedback and implements changes to enhance program performance. In response to formal and informal feedback, the YES program curriculum has been modified to enhance not only student and mentor experiences but also the process for soliciting feedback in the future.