Enhancing pediatric residents’ scholar role: the development of a Scholarly Activity Guidance and Evaluation program

BACKGROUND Research training is essential to the development of well-rounded physicians. Although many pediatric residency programs require residents to complete a research project, it is often challenging to integrate research training into educational programs. OBJECTIVE We aimed to develop an innovative research program for pediatric residents, called the Scholarly Activity Guidance and Evaluation (SAGE) program. METHODS We developed a competency-based program which establishes benchmarks for pediatric residents, while providing ongoing academic mentorship. RESULTS Feedback from residents and their research supervisors about the SAGE program has been positive. Preliminary evaluation data have shown that all final-year residents have met or exceeded program expectations. CONCLUSIONS By providing residents with this supportive environment, we hope to influence their academic career paths, increase their research productivity, promote evidence-based practice, and ultimately, positively impact health outcomes.