Reflections on running training workshops for research ethics committee members in Spain between 2001 and 2008

To present the experience of running workshops for members of research ethics committees (REC) in Spain from 2001-2008 by a non-profit institution.

We analyzed data from 7 sessions of the course, involving 165 health professionals. Data were taken from an opinion survey conducted at the end of each seminar and a deferred questionnaire sent after the workshops.

Opinions of 122 participants who completed the first questionnaire (84% of the 146 attendees) on these training courses were very positive (median, ≥ 4.5 out of 5). The second questionnaire was administered a few months after each session, and a total of 43 participants responded (36% of 118). The participants improved their knowledge, attitude, and skills (median, 4.0 out of 5) in most of the areas evaluated. Furthermore, they believed that training for REC members should be mandatory (median, 5.0 out of 5) and carried out regularly (median, 4.0 out of 5). The lack of communication between RECs and limitations in monitoring clinical trials (median, 4.5 out of 5) were the main problems according to respondents. Training was rated as a strong necessity (median, 4.0 out of 5).

The courses were well received, they contributed to the overall learning of the participants, and served to highlight some of the major problems faced by REC members. These results emphasize the importance of training.