Evaluating a Learner-Designed Course for Health Research Skills in Ghana
Author Information
Author(s): Bates Imelda, Ansong Daniel, Bedu-Addo George, Agbenyega Tsiri, Akoto Alex Yaw Osei, Nsiah-Asare Anthony, Karikari Patrick
Primary Institution: Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Ghana
Hypothesis
The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a learner-designed research skills course delivered in a teaching hospital in Ghana.
Conclusion
The course successfully developed individual and institutional research capacity among learners in Ghana.
Supporting Evidence
- 14 out of 15 learners gained research competence assessed against UK Quality Assurance Agency criteria.
- There was a 36% increase in positive responses regarding confidence in research-related attitudes after the course.
- 79% of paired before/after responses indicated positive changes in individual learners' research-related attitudes.
- 81% of learners showed improved intention towards research-related actions.
- 85% of learners improved in their actions related to research after the course.
Takeaway
A group of health professionals in Ghana created and completed a course to learn how to do research, which helped them feel more confident and capable.
Methodology
The study used a combination of assessments, including a research proposal, project report, and reflective commentaries, to evaluate learners' competence and confidence.
Potential Biases
Self-reported ratings may overestimate student confidence and competence.
Limitations
The results may be influenced by other educational experiences and variations in the students' work or personal environment.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 15 mixed specialty health professionals, with 4 females and a mean time since graduation of 10.3 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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