Preorientation Curriculum: An Approach for Preparing Students with Heterogenous Backgrounds for Training in a Master of Biostatistics Program

Journal Article (Journal Article)

We describe an innovative preorientation curriculum (POC) for a Master of Biostatistics (MB) program. The goal of the POC is to fill critical skills gaps for students entering the MB program from heterogeneous backgrounds so they are prepared to engage in the program’s rigorous, fast-paced training upon arrival. To achieve this goal, we introduce a structured approach to thinking that forms the foundation of a sound mental map of Biostatistics, which will assist students in their subsequent efforts to master the discipline. Based on constructivist principles, the POC covers mathematical and statistical theory, data analysis methods, programming, and statistical practice through a sequence of instruction that encourages reflection, extension, and connection between topics. The POC is modular, self-paced, and offered online via a cloud-hosted interactive learning management system (LMS). Students are required to complete the curriculum prior to the MB program orientation. We describe the rationale, design, features, and initial evaluation of the POC. Finally, to help programs interested in designing similar curricula, we provide a detailed instruction sequence description of one topic.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Neely, ML; Troy, JD; Gschwind, GT; Pomann, GM; Grambow, SC; Samsa, GP

Published Date

  • January 1, 2022

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 11 / 4

Start / End Page

  • 77 - 85

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1927-2685

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 1927-2677

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.5430/jct.v11n4p77

Citation Source

  • Scopus