Preorientation Curriculum: An Approach for Preparing Students with Heterogenous Backgrounds for Training in a Master of Biostatistics Program

Y

9

Masters Programs; Graduate Students; Biology; Statistics Education; Cognitive Mapping; Thinking Skills; Student Characteristics; Student Diversity; Curriculum Design; Constructivism (Learning); Teaching Methods; Data Analysis; Programming; Mathematics Instruction; Correlation; Reflection; Sequential Approach; Interdisciplinary Approach; Program Development

1927-2677
1927-2685

We describe an innovative preorientation curriculum (POC) for a Master of Biostatistics (MB) program. The goal of the POC is to fill critical skills gaps for students entering the MB program from heterogeneous backgrounds so they are prepared to engage in the program's rigorous, fast-paced training upon arrival. To achieve this goal, we introduce a structured approach to thinking that forms the foundation of a sound mental map of Biostatistics, which will assist students in their subsequent efforts to master the discipline. Based on constructivist principles, the POC covers mathematical and statistical theory, data analysis methods, programming, and statistical practice through a sequence of instruction that encourages reflection, extension, and connection between topics. The POC is modular, self-paced, and offered online via a cloud-hosted interactive learning management system (LMS). Students are required to complete the curriculum prior to the MB program orientation. We describe the rationale, design, features, and initial evaluation of the POC. Finally, to help programs interested in designing similar curricula, we provide a detailed instruction sequence description of one topic.

As Provided

2023

EJ1360329