Introducing conflict resolution and negotiation training into a biomedical sciences graduate curriculum

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Sciences
• Graduate Education
• Professional Skills Development

Background:

• Recommendations exist for enhancing pre-doctoral training with professional skills.
• Implementation details for professional skills training are often lacking.
• Biomedical science graduate curricula can incorporate conflict resolution and negotiation skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To integrate conflict resolution and negotiation training into a graduate biomedical science curriculum.
• To analyze the reception and effectiveness of this professional skills training.
• To provide a template for implementing similar training in other institutions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Kirkpatrick's Four Level Model of Evaluation.
• Administered post-course questionnaires on perceptions and scenario responses.
• Conducted follow-up surveys to assess skill application and observation.

Main Results:

• The training effectively addresses a need within graduate education.
• Students perceived the training positively and demonstrated skill acquisition.
• The developed materials offer a replicable model for other programs.

Conclusions:

• Conflict resolution and negotiation training is a valuable addition to graduate education.
• A blended approach with didactic and interactive elements over time is effective.
• This training prepares students for academic, non-academic, and personal challenges.