Adapting an Undergraduate Summer Internship to a Virtual Format: Implementing a Mentored Cancer Research Experience to Meet Rising Demand for Flexible Learning Environments.

Abstract

To meet the rising demand for flexible learning in data-driven health research, we adapted an in-person undergraduate research program (Quantitative Sciences Undergraduate Research Experience (QSURE)) to an all-virtual framework in summer 2020 and 2021. We used Web-conferencing and remote computing to implement virtual hands-on research training within a comprehensive cancer center. We designed the program to achieve research and career development goals: students completed faculty-mentored quantitative research projects and received education in the responsible conduct of research and practical skills, such as oral and written presentation. We assessed virtual program efficacy using pre- and post-program quantitative and qualitative student feedback. Eighteen students participated (nine each year); they reported high satisfaction with the virtual format. Compared with baseline, students reported improved perceived competence in quantitative skills and research knowledge post-program; these improvements were comparable to the in-person program. Defined benchmarks and consistent communication (with mentors, program directors, other students) were crucial to students' success; however, students noted challenges in building camaraderie online. With adequate resources, Web-based technology can be leveraged as an effective format for hands-on quantitative research training. Our framework can be tailored to an institution's needs, particularly those for which available resources better align with a virtual research program.