Conceptualization, development, and early dissemination of eMPACT^TM: A competency-based career navigation system for...

Area of Science:

• Clinical research workforce development
• Health professions education
• Career navigation systems

Background:

• Clinical research professionals (CRPs) require continuous training to adapt to evolving roles.
• Clinical research coordinators (CRCs) form a significant segment of the CRP workforce.
• Existing training and career support systems may not adequately address CRC needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design, develop, and implement an online career navigation system, eMPACT™ (eMpowering Purposeful Advancement of Careers and Training).
• To address the specific training and employment needs of clinical research coordinators (CRCs).

Main Methods:

• Employed a design-based research methodology for iterative development and implementation.
• The project involved five key phases: conceptualization, task analysis, algorithm development, algorithm validation, and system evaluation.

Main Results:

• The eMPACT™ system was successfully conceptualized, developed, and validated.
• It enables CRCs to access personalized training and job opportunities based on competencies and career goals.
• Early data indicate steady user growth and diversity in ethnicity and job levels among registered CRCs.

Conclusions:

• The eMPACT™ system demonstrates potential for advancing CRC careers and enhancing organizational workforce diversity.
• Further long-term research is necessary to assess its impact on workforce development and sustainability.
• Expansion of the eMPACT™ service to other CRP sectors is recommended.