Application of a bioinformatics training delivery method for reaching dispersed and distant trainees

• Published in: PLoS computational biology Vol. 17; no. 3; p. e1008715
• Main Authors: Hall, Christina R, Griffin, Philippa C, Lonie, Andrew J, Christiansen, Jeffrey H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Public Library of Science 18-03-2021; Public Library of Science (PLoS)
• Subjects: Bioinformatics; Biologists; Biology and Life Sciences; Classrooms; Collaboration; Computational biology; Computer and Information Sciences; Computer applications; Computer managed instruction; Computer programs; Computer-based training; Content analysis; Distribution; Education; Educational aspects; Engineering and Technology; Life sciences; Methods; People and Places; Population (statistical); Population statistics; Research and Analysis Methods; Researchers; Social Sciences; Statistical analysis; Training; Urban areas; Workshops; Australia; United States > US
• ISSN: 1553-7358; 1553-734X; 1553-7358
• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1008715

Many initiatives have addressed the global need to upskill biologists in bioinformatics tools and techniques. Australia is not unique in its requirement for such training, but due to its large size and relatively small and geographically dispersed population, Australia faces specific challenges. A combined training approach was implemented by the authors to overcome these challenges. The "hybrid" method combines guidance from experienced trainers with the benefits of both webinar-style delivery and concurrent face-to-face hands-on practical exercises in classrooms. Since 2017, the hybrid method has been used to conduct 9 hands-on bioinformatics training sessions at international scale in which over 800 researchers have been trained in diverse topics on a range of software platforms. The method has become a key tool to ensure scalable and more equitable delivery of short-course bioinformatics training across Australia and can be easily adapted to other locations, topics, or settings.