Endocrine Society of India Fun Research Workshop 2015: The participants perspective

Abstract

Sir, The Fundamentals in Health Research Workshop was organized for the first time by the Endocrine Society of India, in 2015. It is well recognized that research is an integral part of medicine; however, most of us do not receive a formal training in research methodology during postgraduation, as well as the super specialty courses. In a survey conducted among 2nd and 3rd year postgraduate doctors in a teaching hospital in Mumbai, only 4% of respondents had published a scientific paper.[1] This workshop was the means of creating awareness about the research methodologies. It provided the participants the necessary knowledge and tools for conducting sound, scientific, and ethical research. The workshop was conducted over a period of 2 days, and all participants were divided into four groups. The sessions were well planned and interactive. The first day of workshop started with an introduction to concepts in health research. It was followed by a review of the standard available research methods. At the end of each session, the speakers clarified our doubts. After review of the research methodologies, the participants were given a group activity. A research question, “Does eating sugar cause diabetes?” was put forward, and each group was to design a study based on the research design allotted to them. We worked in groups and with the valuable inputs from our moderators, and we were able to make the presentations based on the study design allotted to us. The second day of workshop involved multiple sessions on the statistical methods. The sessions on grant writing and better medical writing made the workshop as a complete package. The group presentations were done at the end of the teaching sessions and made our understanding of the health research concepts to be clear. The workshop was first of its kind for many of the participants and helped us to understand some key aspects of clinical research methodology, biostatistics, and research ethics. Teamwork and leadership were other important lessons we took home from the workshop. The workshop provided a unique platform to establish camaraderie among fellow budding endocrinologists across the country and form acquaintances and lifelong friendships. It gave us an opportunity to interact and work closely with some of the stalwarts in the field of endocrinology who acted as faculty, moderators, and rapporteurs for the workshop. At the end of the workshop, we were asked for our feedback. Some important suggestions, which the participants contributed were that the biostatistics part needs to be more extensive and that knowing the topics at least a few weeks beforehand would have helped the participants come more prepared. It was also suggested that access to online enduring material on research after the workshop would enrich the experience and would help the participants refresh their knowledge and keep abreast with research methodologies. In conclusion, attending the Fundamentals in Health Research Workshop were proved to be an invaluable experience. Mentorship and encouragement are the essential for the professional growth of any individual and we are extremely grateful that this was provided in plenty at the workshop from some of the biggest names in the field of endocrinology and research. The two day workshop was, in total, a memorable and unique experience and would undoubtedly be one of the highlights of our endocrinology training. Financial support and sponsorship Nil. Conflicts of interest There are no conflicts of interest.