Provider-Related Issues

The Wednesday AccrualNet Post (1-16-13) - AccrualNet is a Virtual Treasure Trove of Training Resources

Last Updated: Jan 16, 2013

AccrualNet has a great deal to offer when designing and implementing staff training -- it is a virtual treasure trove of training resources.

Cathy Muha's Image

You’re the manager of a clinical research program. After your star CRA left to take another position, you spent weeks sifting through resumes, interviewing, checking references, and FINALLY-- your new study coordinator starts work tomorrow. Sound familiar? If so, you know the next step--it’s time to let the training begin!  A lot of managers tell us that training new staff is a time consuming and challenging area. Many managers say they feel like they ‘reinvent the wheel’ every time someone new needs to be trained. Whether it’s developing a training curriculum, defining competencies, or trying to find new and interesting methods to deliver training—it takes a lot of time.

AccrualNet can help! Did you know that AccrualNet has many resources that can help you design the training for new staff?  There is a virtual treasure trove of education and training materials right at your fingertips.  Recently, the AccrualNet Team added several new training resources that may be of particular interest.  I’d like to highlight two of them:

  1. Introduction to Clinical Research Learning Modules:  These 12 online educational modules provide an introductory but comprehensive overview of the clinical research process for staff who are new to the clinical research arena. 
  2. Sample Test Questions for General Clinical Trials Class :   This is basically a “test” with 35 questions that could be used to assess knowledge after a general clinical trials education class.  The questions are in multiple choice format and are geared towards study coordinators and research staff.

While content is absolutely key, I wanted to share a few of my favorite “non-content” tips for you to think about when beginning to train a new person:

  1. Have a discussion on learning style.  Everyone learns differently and you need to tailor the training appropriately.
  2. Identify formal and informal mentors for the new hire who can help guide and support the onboarding process.
  3. Take the time to introduce your new hire to people throughout your organization – it’s a great way for new staff to get a sense of the culture and values of the organization and to appreciate how they fit into the larger picture.

What training resources do you use with new staff?  What are your favorite training tips?  Please share them with all of us here in AccrualNet community!

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