TSFRE - Thoracic Surgery Foundation for Research and Education TSFRE - Thoracic Surgery Foundation for Research and Education TSFRE - Thoracic Surgery Foundation for Research and Education
TSFRE - Thoracic Surgery Foundation for Research and Education
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Simulation in Thoracic Surgery Education

The TSFRE Education Committee requests proposals for grants to support the demonstration study for the application of simulation in thoracic surgery education.  The TSFRE Board of Directors has approved $100,000 total for funding of all 2008 Simulation Grants and award amounts are not specified but will depend on the number and quality of applications received with realistic budgetary justification. 

The successful application will include the following characteristics:

  1. Demonstrate effective use of simulation for resident education, retraining of practicing surgeons, training for new technology / technique, or demonstration of skill competence.
  2. Measurable outcomes must be included in the proposal.
  3. Proposals should focus on educational application rather than technology or equipment development.
  4. Preference will be given to applications judged to have a high probability of successful completion that will facilitate subsequent funding support.
  5. TSFRE grant guidelines for salary and overhead costs will apply.

Eligibility
Any thoracic surgeon who has completed a program leading to certification by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery or its equivalent in a country outside of the United States or who will successfully complete such training by the grant start date is eligible for a TSFRE Simulation in Thoracic Surgery Education Grant

Narrative
Your narrative should include the following elements:

  1. Specific goals and Significance (500 words):
    Identify the outcomes measures that demonstrate effective educational experience from simulation.  This element should be brief and specific.  Applicability to future education in thoracic surgery should be defined.
  2. Background (500 words):
    As this grant is intended as a pilot grant, previous results are not expected.  However, background information to support the probability of successful simulation should be included.
  3. Methodology (not to exceed 750 words):
    A complete description of the simulation must be included.  Explain how students will interact with the simulated environment and define measurable outcomes.
  4. Budget (500 words):
    Outline costs of the entire project under the broad categories of personnel, equipment and supplies.  Indicate the sources of funds that exceed the amount of the TSFRE award that are required to complete the project.  The Foundation does not support the costs of consultants, travel or graphics.  A complete budget summary to justify requested support must be included.

Deadline
Applications are available online only and must be received by TSFRE on or before October 18th, 11:59 p.m.: No exceptions will be granted without prior approval from the Education Committee.