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The deadline for the 2012 TSFRE research awards has passed.

The TSFRE requests proposals for research grants to support demonstration study of the application of simulation for thoracic surgery education. Award amounts are not specified but will depend on the quality of applications received with realistic budgetary justification. The successful application will include the following characteristics:

1. Demonstrate effective use of innovative instructional methods or assessments including but not limited to simulation for resident education, retraining of practicing surgeons, training for new technology / technique, or demonstration of competence.
2. The focus may be on specific technical, cognitive, or communication skills rather than broad curricular development or restructuring.
3. Measurable outcomes must be specified in the proposal as well as the methodology by which they will be determined.
4. Proposals should focus on application of technology to educational purpose rather than development of simulation technology or equipment.
5. Preference will be given to applications with evidence of expert knowledge of the science of education either on the part of the PI or through active collaboration with educational researchers.

A narrative applications will include the following elements:

1. Abstract (500 words): Clearly identify the educational need to be addressed, the innovative technique, and the target population. Proved specific aims including the educational design and outcome measures selected to demonstrate efficacy. Applicability to future education in thoracic surgery must be clearly defined.
2. Project Summary
   1. Background: (500 words) As this grant is intended as a pilot grant, previous results are not required. However, the results of a needs assessment justifying the use of the educational design to address a specific gap in our current educational approaches should be included. Background information to support the probability of successful achievement of specific goals should be provided.
   2. Methodology: (750 words) A complete description of the educational design must be included. Explain how trainees will interact with the proposed technique or technology and define measurable outcomes. Outcome measures such as feasibility, reliability, and validity should be substantiated using established statistical methods. Expert consultation with an educational researcher/statistician should be considered in determining these outcomes.
   3. Budget: (500 words) A complete budget summary to justify requested support must be included. Salary support for the PI is not allowed but consulting fees and data collection support is acceptable.