Abstract
Surgical education research has become increasingly important as training programs
evolve from apprenticeship-based models toward evidence-based, theory-informed educational
practices. This primer provides a structured overview for clinicians and educators
seeking to develop and disseminate meaningful education research in surgery. We outline
strategies for generating impactful research questions, selecting theoretical and
conceptual frameworks, and addressing ethical considerations unique to studying learners.
Methodological approaches including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods are
reviewed, along with guidance for survey design, simulation-based research, and the
selection of appropriate outcome measures. Challenges and opportunities in multi-institutional
collaboration are highlighted, as are strategies for dissemination through journals,
conferences, and digital platforms. Ultimately, rigorous surgical education research
requires thoughtful alignment of research questions, methodology, and dissemination
strategies to advance the field and improve surgical training. Emerging areas such
as competency-based assessment, entrustable professional activities, simulation, and
artificial intelligence represent exciting future directions for inquiry.
Keywords
surgical education - education research - theoretical frameworks - research methodology
- dissemination
