SMART course
The Scientific Methods And Research Techniques (SMART) course is a research methodology course designed for anaesthetists in training, organised by the Cambridge University Division of Anaesthesia at Addenbrooke’s Hospital. Aimed at post fellowship/membership trainees, the course provides an introduction to the research process, from setting up a project and gaining ethical approval through gathering and analyzing the data to presenting the results and peer review.
It has long been recognised that a firm grounding in the principles of research is an essential part of anaesthetic training. The SMART course objectives map to the Royal College of Anaesthetists Higher “Academic & Research” Competencies for the CCT in anaesthesia, pain and intensive care medicine.
The course has a strong interactive focus presented by experienced researchers with hands-on computer sessions, so places are strictly limited to 25. The course is subsidised by the East of England Deanery, therefore applications from the region will be considered first and at a preferential rate.
COURSE OVERVIEW
- Principles of statistics: Hypothesis testing, significance testing, distributions and power
- Hands-on statistical analysis
- Presenting your ideas - Getting the most from Excel and PowerPoint
- Peer review and getting published
- Research and industry
- The role of research
- Career pathways in research
- Literature review
- Critical appraisal
- Meta-analysis
- Study design and methodology
- Gaining ethical approval
- Funding
- Recruiting patients
- Running a study and dealing with problems
The next SMART course will run from 14th to 16th November 2011. The cost of the programme for the local deanery is £300 and £600 for those outside the deanery.
The new format of the SMART course was well received by all candidates. Some comments received:
"Very good course, well organised, amazing feat to fit so much information into 3 days."
"Fantastic overview of research, pitched to the right level"
"Excellent course, comprehensive, enthusiastic and expert speakers"
"Highly recommended course for anybody who wants to do research"
"One of the best value courses I have ever attended, it covers the RCOA research competencies and is therefore useful for anaesthetic and intensive care trainees"
APPLICATION FORM AND PROVISIONAL PROGRAMME
Click here for the application form for the SMART course.
Click here for the programme for November 2011.
The cost of the programme for the local deanery is £300 and £600 for those outside the deanery.