Andrew Dueck (University of Toronto); Elizabeth Wooster (OISE/University of Toronto); David Szalay (McMaster University); Douglas Wooster (University of Toronto)

Synopsis

This paper describes how a national research agenda may be built from a CE activity

Purpose

Continuing education (CE) activities bring a variety of perspectives that can further question the material presented and result in potential clinical and basic science research questions. Although not the primary goal of a CE activity, a structured approach to identifying, categorizing and elaborating these questions can lead to the development of a coordinated research agenda. This presentation describes an approach to codifying questions from a CE activity and the follow-up steps taken in the development of a national research agenda.

Methods

During a group-learning CE activity (Toronto Endovascular Conference – TEC 2011) regarding endovascular (EV) treatment of vascular disease, the invited speakers, as a ‘value-added’ activity, were asked to identify a relevant research question. The questions were collated and circulated to the specialists in the associated national specialty society (Canadian Society for Vascular Surgery) for feedback. A refined list was prepared to establish a national research agenda.

Results

44 discrete research questions were identified and categorized. Appropriate research approaches were assigned; multiple approaches were appropriate for 42. 12 questions were abandoned as not relevant, under investigation in another forum or not practical for investigation. 32 questions were used to define the research agenda. Further refinement of the questions and the initiation of collaborative research studies is ongoing.

Conclusions

A CE activity is a rich source of potential research questions. A coordinated approach to identifying, recording and elaborating these questions can be the basis for establishing a meaningful, collaborative research agenda.

Declaration

None of the authors have any conflicts to declare. The education meeting being discussed received non restricted education grants from a variety of commercial sources.