Applying Experiential Learning to Career Development Training for Biomedical Graduate Students and Postdocs:...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Sciences Education
• Career Development
• Graduate Training

Background:

• Experiential learning is a valuable pedagogical approach across disciplines.
• Biomedical sciences training often focuses on traditional research methods.
• There is a need to expand career development opportunities for predoctoral and postdoctoral scholars.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare four types of experiential learning approaches used in biomedical sciences.
• To analyze learning objectives and evaluation strategies for each approach.
• To provide a framework for institutions to design and implement effective experiential learning programs.

Main Methods:

• Nine institutions within the NIH Broadening Experiences in Scientific Training Consortium participated.
• Institutions shared their experiences with implementing experiential learning.
• A comparative analysis of learning objectives and evaluation strategies was conducted.

Main Results:

• An overview of four distinct experiential learning approaches is presented.
• Comparisons highlight differences in learning objectives and evaluation methods.
• Key factors for institutional-level experiential learning design are discussed.

Conclusions:

• Experiential learning offers diverse opportunities for biomedical trainees.
• A structured framework can guide institutions in selecting and implementing suitable programs.
• Effective design and delivery are crucial for successful career training outcomes.