Credentialing of research surgeons: can computers help in the process?

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Research Ethics
• Educational Technology

Background:

• Debate exists on ensuring competence and compassion in researchers using live animals.
• Current mechanisms for evaluating researcher competency are under consideration.
• Investigator acceptance of new evaluation methods is a key concern.

Discussion:

• Proposes an interactive computer program for evaluating and instructing researchers on animal research protocols.
• Highlights the benefits of immediate feedback and educational reinforcement for knowledge gaps.
• Draws on experience with the IRIS (Instantaneous Response Interactive System) program.

Key Insights:

• Interactive computer programs can effectively assess cognitive knowledge in animal research.
• Immediate feedback loops enhance the educational reinforcement process for researchers.
• The IRIS system serves as a model for developing such evaluative and educational tools.

Outlook:

• Further development and implementation of interactive educational tools are recommended for researchers.
• Panel discussions suggest a need for structured evaluation and training in animal research.
• Focus on investigator acceptance is vital for the successful adoption of new training methodologies.