Focus group interviews as part of a clinical research immersion experience

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Background Research is an essential component of the dental profession and should be integrated into dental education and training curricula. Opportunities to participate in clinical research studies can enrich the learning experience of those involved. Methods This paper reports a new educational method utilized to enhance the experiences of novice members of a research study team in conducting Focus Group Interviews (FGIs) as part of a double-blind clinical trial exploring an oral probiotic intervention. Study team members participated in a series of in-person FGIs conducted at the beginning and toward the end of a University-based clinical trial, which took place from October 2021 to October 2022. Results Study team members consisting of faculty, staff, and pre-doctoral dental students help plan and conduct interviews, curate, and qualitatively analyze the data. Study team members acquired experience with regard to interpersonal communication skills, organization, research subject communication, the application of human subject protection, FGI methodology, data analysis, developing presentations, and preparing scientific data presentation and publications. Conclusion Exposing dental faculty and students to clinical research studies in university settings can offer opportunities for experiential, multidimensional learning and the development of new research knowledge and skills.