Virtual curriculum delivery in the COVID-19 era: the pediatric surgery boot camp v2.0

We evaluated the impact of a virtual Pediatric Surgery Bootcamp curriculum on resource utilization, learner engagement, knowledge retention, and stakeholder satisfaction.

A virtual curriculum was developed around Pediatric Surgery Milestones. GlobalCastMD delivered pre-recorded and live content over a single 10-h day with a concluding social hour. Metrics of learner engagement, faculty interaction, knowledge retention, and satisfaction were collected and analyzed during and after the course.

Of 56 PS residencies, 31 registered (55.4%; 8/8 Canadian and 23/48 US; p = 0.006), including 42 learners overall. The virtual BC budget was $15,500 (USD), 54% of the anticipated in-person course. Pre- and post-tests were administered, revealing significant knowledge improvement (48.6% [286/589] vs 66.9% [89/133] p < 0.0002). Learner surveys (n = 14) suggested the virtual BC facilitated fellowship transition (85%) and strengthened peer-group camaraderie (69%), but in-person events were still favored (77%). Program Directors (PD) were surveyed, and respondents (n = 22) also favored in-person events (61%). PDs not registering their learners (n = 7) perceived insufficient value-added and concern for excessive participants.

The virtual bootcamp format reduced overall expenses, interfered less with schedules, achieved more inclusive reach, and facilitated content archiving. Despite these advantages, learners and program directors still favored in-person education.

III.