ASPO Abstracts
In-person versus virtual training for the next generation of U3 cancer prevention scientists
Category: Cancer Health Disparities
Conference Year: 2021
Abstract Body:
Purpose: The Student Transformative Experiences to Progress Under-represented Professionals (STEP-UP; NCI R25CA217725; P30 CA023074) is a summer training program designed to diversify the cancer prevention workforce, key to combating cancer health disparities. STEP-UP pivoted to a virtual environment in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions. The purpose of this evaluation was to compare training outcomes between virtual (2020; N=17) and in-person cohorts (2019; N=16).
Methods: Both cohorts were trained in cancer health disparities, cancer prevention research design and implementation, cancer epidemiology, basic science, data management and analysis, research integrity, and critique of relevant literature. Students were matched with interest-area mentors; individual development plans were designed. Online platforms (e.g., D2L, FlipGrid, and TeamUp) were employed for both cohorts; expanded in 2020 (e.g. Zoom, Slack, Labster). Outreach activities in 2019 included interaction with the public, in 2020, trainees developed educational outreach materials. Both years, program evaluation included qualitative exit interviews and pre-post program surveys to assess confidence in performing select research skills (N =14 items). In addition to descriptive statistics, generalized estimating equation (GEE) regression models explored changes by year of participation.
Results: The gains in research experience and confidence in skills following the program did not differ significantly between cohorts (p>0.01) and there were significant gains in 7 areas (p<0.01; conducting cancer research, participant interactions, community engagement, cultural tailoring, digital intervention approaches, biomarker selection and measurement, literature critique). In the 2020 virtual environment, qualitative data highlighted the role of peer support in training quality; the majority expressing a desire to return to in-person programming (9/17 trainees). Limited connectivity was the most common barrier cited in 2020 (5/17); asynchronous postings on Slack and D2L was effective in assuring access to training materials.
Conclusion: Students who participated in STEP-UP increased their research skills and confidence to conduct cancer prevention research, regardless of method of program delivery.
Keywords: cancer prevention, training, health disparities