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

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.

Duke Scholars

Author Megan Lee Neely Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Division of Biostatistics

Author Jesse David Troy Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Division of Biostatistics

Author Gina-Maria Pomann Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Division of Biostatistics

Author Steven C. Grambow Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Division of Biostatistics

Author Gregory P. Samsa Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Division of Biostatistics