Project Summary

Background: Instruction in Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) is central to promoting research integrity, ethical decision-making, and public trust in science. While RCR training is well institutionalized in many high-income settings, evidence on its effectiveness in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, remains limited. Since 2019, the Mbarara University Research Ethics Education Program (MUREEP) has delivered structured RCR training across institutions in southwestern Uganda, yet its impact has not been formally evaluated.

Objective: This study evaluated the effectiveness of RCR instruction delivered by MUREEP on trainees’ knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors related to ethical decision-making in research and practice between March 2019 and December 2023.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was employed using a predominantly quantitative online questionnaire with embedded open-ended questions. Eligible participants were trainees who completed at least 75% of the MUREEP RCR course during the study period. Guided by the Kirkpatrick Model, the evaluation assessed trainee reactions (satisfaction), learning outcomes (knowledge and skills), and self-reported behavioral and attitudinal changes. Secondary data from post-training evaluation records were also analyzed. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses were thematically summarized.

 

Funder: Self-funded

 

Current status: Data analysis and manuscript writing

 

Principal Investigator: Birungi Caroline, Regulatory Manager SRF/Research and training centers.

Telephone No.: 0700987342

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

 

Start Date: June 2025

 

Expected End date: Feb 2026