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Using the think aloud protocol in health professions education: an interview method for exploring thought processes:
W Rainey Johnson1, Anthony R Artino2, Steven J Durning3
1Departments of Military and Emergency Medicine and Medicine, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
The think aloud protocol (TAP) offers a method for understanding complex thoughts in health professions education. This guide provides a roadmap for rigorous implementation and adaptation of TAP for research.
Area of Science:
- Health Professions Education Research
- Cognitive Science
- Qualitative Research Methods
Background:
- The think aloud protocol (TAP) comprises think aloud interviews for verbal data collection and protocol analysis for data interpretation.
- TAP is valuable for exploring cognitive processes, a challenging area in health professions education.
- Variations in TAP implementation and its complex history can hinder rigorous application.
Discussion:
- This guide defines TAP, traces its origins, and outlines its applications.
- It offers a detailed roadmap for rigorous implementation in data collection and analysis.
- Opportunities for adapting the traditional TAP are also suggested.
Key Insights:
- Researchers can gain tools for rigorous think aloud interviews.
- Understanding TAP's origins empowers intentional and justifiable adaptations.
- This work facilitates deeper insights into individuals' thought processes.
Outlook:
- Future research can leverage adapted TAP for modern health professions education.
- Standardized, rigorous implementation of TAP will enhance research quality.
- TAP's potential for exploring complex cognition remains significant.
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