To help young researchers meet an impending NIH policy requiring formal training in scientific rigor and reproducibility, the CCTS is launching a web-based quiz game using the Kaizen platform developed by CCTS Informatics. Although targeted to federally funded trainees (F, K, T), it is open to players at any professional level across the CCTS Partner Network.
The game, derived from a course taught by Dr. Stephen A. Yoder and his team in Fall 2016, “Mastering the Art of Reproducible Science,” was beta-tested earlier this year. Players enjoyed the experience and provided helpful feedback that has been incorporated into the new version of the game that begins on May 1st.
How to Play
After registering via Eventbrite, players receive an article or two every week focusing on the common errors and fallacies in scientific research. The articles are chosen to emphasize the four key areas of the NIH rigor and reproducibility requirements (scientific premise, authentication of chemical and biologic resources, consideration of sex and other biologic variables in study design, and statistical rigor).
Players read the assigned article(s) then log into the Kaizen system to answer five timed multiple choice questions that test one’s knowledge about the content. It’s that easy! Those who answer at least 75% of the questions correctly receive a certificate at the end of the game. For CCTS Hub players, the training is also recorded in the UAB Learning Management System (LMS).
Why Play
Total time required per week differs by player, but on average clocks in around 1-2 hours, with most of that spent on review of assigned articles. “The CCTS Kaizen game requires far less time for trainees to get up to speed on the fairly nuanced rigor, reproducibility, and transparency concepts compared to a more traditional learning method,” said CCTS Training Director Dr. David Chaplin. Gamification can also help players retain the information they learn as well.
Questions? Email CCTS Project Director and Game Master