S32 - English Language in Oncology: a Targeted Training Programme for the Researchers and Healthcare Professionals of IRST IRCCS (Romagna Oncology Network, Italy)

Abstract

Background: Management of oncologic diseases relies on the synergy between practice and research. Since English is the language of research, we believe it is crucial to investigate targeted teaching approaches to encourage interaction with the scientific community and foreign patients. Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS is home to an English Training Programme (ETP) that promotes continuing education and fosters excellence, innovation, and progress in oncology. Materials and methods: In accordance with the action research model, our project includes 3 steps: English language needs analysis (placement tests, motivational letters and questionnaires for researchers and healthcare professionals) and SWOT analysis (interviews to key informants) to identify critical factors for ETP design; identification of SMART ETP goals, settings and indicators; ETP implementation with short- and long-term outcome assessment to improve training methods. Results: Seven key informants were interviewed on the internal and external strengths/weaknesses and opportunities/threats related to an ETP. Among IRST IRCCS professionals, 163 (F:M = 125:38, median age 39 years) completed the questionnaire: 76% have learned English in group classes (46% with English native speaker); 4% as self-taught learners. Most people (59%) have a medical and health sciences educational background, 64% of whom are engaged in research activity. Professional English is more frequently used for online searches (67%), scientific paper reading (64%), and writing (34%); less frequently for working abroad (3%). Spoken language, especially pronunciation (46%) and fluency (63%), accounts for the weakest perceived skill. Preliminary data show that the best-suited training programme would be a long-term course for interprofessional groups of 5-8, with a focus on sociolinguistic and phonological skills. Additional spotlights on specific language issues and individual tutoring for scientific writing or oral presentation will be included. As this project is currently ongoing, updated results will be presented at the congress. Conclusions: To our knowledge no similar project has ever been carried out in any other Italian biomedical research centre. The preliminary results strongly suggest that our ETP could improve language knowledge and communication skills in oncology, promoting collaboration networks and enhancing the performance of the researchers and healthcare professionals of IRST IRCCS.