摘要：AbstractThis paper reports the findings of a comprehensive evaluation of the first four years of a training program in Reproduction, Early Development, and the Impact on Health (REDIH). The objectives of the program are to supplement MA/MS, PhD and Postdoctoral programs, develop the next generation of reproductive scientists, and move the field forward. The data from the analysis of focus group interviews and corroborated by post module survey data revealed that the most appreciated aspect of the REDIH program is that trainees get to meet four days a year with other trainees and mentors from seven universities who are also conducting reproductive science/medicine research. The value of having one-on-one mentor-trainee ratios at meetings, time to network, and visit laboratories and hospitals are features of REDIH that cannot be underestimated. Trainees provided examples of knowledge and skills acquired during REDIH that they are using in their place of work. Moreover, there are several examples of REDIH collaborations extending beyond the meetings. Finally, mentors attributed trainees’ increased confidence and improved presentation skills to their REDIH experience. The REDIH evaluation process provides the ability to troubleshoot problems resulting in a positive learning experience. Mentors listen to trainee's recommendations and hone the program to meet their expressed needs tempered with training aspects the mentors deem to be important. The value of an emergent design is facilitated by a module format with time between sessions to implement new knowledge and skills. This study demonstrated that evaluation is critical for program design, improvement, and long-term success.
