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.