LogoLogoMSF Science Portal
  • My saved items
logo

© Médecins Sans Frontières

MSF Science Portal
About MSF Science Portal
About MSF
Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use

v2.1.4829.produseast1

Journal Article > Short Report

Blended SORT-IT for operational research capacity building: the model, its successes and challenges

Decroo T, Van der Bergh R, Kumar AMV, Zachariah R, Schillberg EBL, Owiti P, van den Boogaard W, Benedetti G, Shah SK, Ali E, Harries AD
Download
Download
Abstract
The Structured Operational Research Training Initiative (SORT-IT) has been shown to be very effective in strengthening capacity for conducting operational research, publishing in scientific journals and fostering policy and practice change. The ‘classic’ model includes three face-to-face modules during which, respectively, a study protocol, a data analysis plan, and a manuscript are elaborated. Meanwhile, the lectures of the SORT-IT are available online as YouTube videos. Given the availability of this online material and the experiences with online mentorship of the faculty, we piloted a first blended distance/residential SORT-IT. To inform future implementers of our experience with blended operational research courses, we summarize the model, successes, and challenges of this approach in this perspective paper. The blended SORT-IT consisted of an online phase, covering modules 1 and 2, followed by a face-to-face writing module 3. Four out of six participants successfully completed the course, and submitted a manuscript to a peer-reviewed journal within four weeks of completing module 3. A blended approach may make the SORT-IT course more accessible to future participants and may favour the adoption of the course by other institutions, such as national Ministries of Health.
Subject Area
operational research
DOI
10.1080/16549716.2018.1469215
Published Date
01-Jan-2018
PubMed ID
29745782
Languages
English
Journal
Global Health Action
Volume / Issue / Pages
Volume 11, Issue 1, Pages 1469215
Issue Date
01-Jan-2018
Dimensions Badge