The Role of Web-Based Platforms as a Novel Approach to Tackling Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Pathology Education - The PathElective.com Experience

Abstract

Abstract Introduction/Objective Since its creation, PathElective.com has reached approximately 60,000 individuals. This web-based clinical experience has demonstrated itself to be a powerful and accessible educational tool for medical students and residents across the world. However, there is currently limited data on the inclusion and equity impact of pathology education resources. Here, we assess responses from website users to better understand our audience and how this resource impacts equity. Methods/Case Report We composed and administered a brief, anonymous survey to assess website user educational, ethnic, gender expression, age, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The one-time user limit survey was composed of multiple-choice, choose-all-that-apply, and short answer questions. The survey was distributed via email to users and was also available via website pop-up and banner. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) 650 users responded to the survey. 78.9% of respondents used PathElective for <1 year with a plurality (28.2%) of respondents being users for <6 months. 94% of respondents disclosed an ethnicity, and in toto, 29 of the 37 ethnicities provided were represented. 62.9% of respondents identified as female, 35.4% as male, and 0.3% as genderqueer. When asked about sexual orientation, 83.1% responded as straight, 3.5% as bisexual, 3.1% as gay/lesbian, and 1.8% in another category. Importantly, 73.8% of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that PathElective filled a previously unmet need and 74.4% either agreed or strongly agreed that PathElective was more accessible than other education adjuncts. Conclusion Data of a limited cross-section of PathElective.com users demonstrate the website provides accessible educational materials to a diverse group of pathology learners. Our users were more geographically, educationally, and sociodemographically diverse compared to the 2021 Pathology ERAS applicant pool. Moreover, the broader impact was demonstrated by learners responding that the materials filled a previously unmet need.