Genomic Pathology/Oncology Materials

Genomic Pathology Workshop Instructor Handbook and Toolkit

The TRIG Working Group Resident Genomic Pathology Workshop Instructor Handbook and Toolkit provides the materials and guidance needed to implement a structured and field-tested introductory genomic pathology/oncology curriculum. The curriculum consists of approximately seven hours of instruction and uses a team-based learning approach. The instructor leading this workshop does not need to be an expert in genomics; however, some background in molecular pathology/oncology is recommended. The first version of these materials was released in 2014. The current version, released in 2019, includes cases, variants, websites and actual genomic testing reports. Links to Google forms are also provided that allow learners to more easily review exercise questions, access online resources and record their answers and notes. Published studies have demonstrated the efficacy of the live workshops.

Online Genomic Pathology Modules

A series of online modules have been created to simulate a team-based learning (TBL) experience offered at the in-person TRIG workshops. The first version, released in 2016, was shown, in a study at 10 pathology training programs, to significantly improve genomics knowledge and the ability to utilize online genomics tools. The current version, released in 2020, includes cases, variants and websites in the latest version of the TRIG curriculum.

Following introductory information providing the curricular framework, each of the four core modules consist of the following components:

• An instructor-delivered 15-30 minute interactive PowerPoint lecture that allows the participant to answer preparation questions and review content needed to undertake the TBL activity.
• A 30-45 minute activity simulating the TBL environment. The participant answers questions with their “team” and learns the use of online genomics tools through guided simulation.
• An instructor-delivered 15-30 minute PowerPoint lecture presenting answers to the activity questions. At the end of the final module there is also a summary of the key concepts.

These modules provide an enjoyable educational experience that successfully translates the in-person workshop to the virtual environment.

 

Student Genomics Materials

Medical Student Genomics Workshop Instructor Handbook and Toolkit

The UTRIG Working Group Medical Student Genomics Workshop Instructor Handbook and Toolkit, released in 2020, provides the materials and guidance needed to implement a flexible, modular, field-tested introductory genomics curriculum designed for integration into medical school and other health professional school coursework. The curriculum consists of approximately four to six hours of instruction and uses a team-based learning approach. The instructor leading this workshop does not need to be an expert in genomics; however, some background in molecular pathology and working with genetics professionals, such as geneticists and/or genetic counselors, will enhance the program. Links to Google forms are also provided that allow learners to more easily review exercise questions, access online resources and record their answers and notes. At pilot workshops, attendees spoke highly of the experience. In survey data from the 2019 UTRIG pilot program, 100% of participants would recommend the learning experience to others.

Online Medical Student Genomics Modules

Released in 2022, these modules, similar to those developed for genomic pathology, provide an interactive virtual team-based learning experience. The four modules follow the structure of the medical student in-person workshop. Through simulations, users learn fundamental aspects of genetics-related patient care including how to navigate online genomics tools, discuss patient genetic histories/develop pedigrees and interpret histology slides. Medical student reviewers found the modules a worthwhile and engaging approach to learning key aspects of genomic medicine.

 

Universal Genomics Instructor Handbook and Toolkit

The Universal Genomics Instructor Handbook and Toolkit, released in 2017, was adapted from the Genomic Pathology Workshop Instructor Materials and is designed as a template to allow the user extensive customization to meet the unique needs of their specialty. It consists of a Universal Genomics Instructor Handbook containing four “universal exercises,” adaptable for use in almost any specialty, in the areas of single gene testing, use of multigene assays, whole-exome sequencing, and polygenic testing/pharmacogenomics. Of note, this last exercise (recognizing additional needs beyond that of the TRIG curriculum) includes pharmacogenomics data and genome-wide association studies (GWAS). The exercises are in a “plug-and-play” format in which diseases and genes can be added to allow specialty-specific customization. There is also a Universal Genomics Toolkit containing examples of how the curriculum has been adapted to cardiology, neurology, and ophthalmology audiences. Data has been published on a successful workshop held at an American Heart Association Scientific Sessions Meeting.

 

Please note that these materials are not specifically endorsed by any of the cooperating organizations listed on the website.