Title: Development, implementation and Evaluation of digital workplace based assessments for the BSc in Anaesthesia Programme at Busitema University in Mbale, Uganda
Funder: Royal College of Anaesthetists

Abstract: Background Non-physician anaesthetists (NPAs) are the predominant anaesthesia providers in Uganda, a country with just 72 physician anaesthetists. Recent introduction of the BSc in Anaesthesia at Busitema University has provided a structured training programme to standardise the training NPAs receive. Workplace based assessments (WBPA) are an important part of ongoing assessment and feedback for students on this programme. The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted changes in course delivery; various components are already taking place online, through pre-existing platforms such as Google Classroom, a change made feasible by the provision of tablet computers to all clinical students. Aims This project aims to improve how students receive feedback from educators, who due to COVID-19 may be remote. The current system relies on paper-based WBPA forms which have many disadvantages including costs associated with printing, physical storage and requirement for face to face completion. In contrast the digital forms will be able to be accessed remotely on smart phones, tablets, or computers and allow links to curriculum items so students can track their progress. Methods Focus group sessions will be carried out with relevant stakeholders including members of student body and faculty to ensure the new forms meet the needs of users. The forms will be based upon current paper forms reformatted for digital use, using pre-existing online tools. There will be development of linking functions to allow students to select the curriculum items relevant to the WBPA. Following introduction, feedback sessions will allow updates to be made in response to any issues that may arise. Sustainability Local faculty will be involved in design and development of this project to ensure changes are appropriate and sustainable. Planning meetings have taken place with the local Head of Department Dr Bulamba who is keen to support the project. Other key members of the team, including the project supervisor Dr Hewitt-Smith, are permanent staff at Busitema University and therefore there will be a strong impetus to ensure that ongoing use and updates to the form are feasible. Local departmental IT support will be used throughout to ensure the platform can be maintained. Justification for funding I am already based in Uganda teaching on the BSc course in Anaesthesia as time out from UK training. This funding will allow me to work on the project locally for 7 months, running focus groups, developing and using the forms, and liaising with faculty and student stakeholders during implementation. As project lead this opportunity will help me to develop my management, leadership and team working skills. The challenges associated with delivering this project in a resource constrained setting will rely on my ability to think creatively and hone my problem-solving skills. Developing and using the WBPA forms whilst teaching on the course will allow me to reflect on the style and content of my own teaching and feedback


Research activity codes: 8.1 ORGANISATION AND DELIVERY OF SERVICES
Health categories: GENERIC HEALTH RELEVANCE