Use of an outcomes research collaborative training curriculum to enhance entry-level dietitians' and established professionals' self-reported understanding of research

Abstract

This project pilot tests a unique outcomes research training curriculum that prepares entry-level dietitians (goal 1) and provides established dietetics professionals with the resources to successfully execute an outcomes research plan (goal 2). The learning objectives for each goal were met via lectures and assignments in two courses, one taught in the fall and one in the winter semester of the second (senior) year of the Coordinated Program at the University of Missouri. At their respective healthcare facilities, registered dietitian (RD) preceptors along with the students progressed through all stages of the research process, from proposal development to data presentation. At the completion of the process, a questionnaire was administered to students and preceptors to evaluate the curriculum. Fourteen of the 15 possible student respondents and four of the five possible RD preceptors returned their questionnaires. Salient findings as well as actions to be taken in subsequent course offerings include: (a) clarify expectations, (b) limit geographical distance, (c) increase in-class time, (d) limit project scope, (e) add more statistics training/practice, (f) introduce outcomes research earlier, (g) preceptors' participation was positive. This endeavor allowed us to acquire the information and experience required to make outcomes research training a more significant component of dietetics education. J Am Diet Assoc. 2003;103:77-84.