Seminars

Overview

A foundational component of the Holderness Program is the seminar series that occurs approximately every other week throughout the year. These seminars are coordinated and led by the first-year scholars with different clinical topics selected for each seminar. The second-year scholars are expected to attend the sessions as frequently as possible so that they can help mentor the first-year scholars and continue honing their own critical appraisal skills.

A different expert is invited to each seminar and the expectation is that the scholars will meet with the expert prior to the seminar to discuss the topic and to select articles that are relevant to the topic for critical appraisal and discussion.

Seminars take place on Thursdays from 3:00pm to 4:30pm in Burnett-Womack Building 4051.

Scholar Expectations

Prior to the seminar the scholars should coordinate with each other in selecting the reading material and preparing the informal discussion for the seminar. This should be done with input from the guest expert. Scholars should consider the time available and allow sufficient time for discussion in addition to presentations of the selected material.

Part of the preparation involves self-directed learning about research methods and limitations of various study designs to improve critical appraisal skills. Additional background learning on basic statistics, evidence-based medicine, and related topics can be helpful.

The seminars provide scholars with the opportunity to apply what they learn about the topic and evidence-based medicine. Although the evidence base will change and evolve over time, the skills scholars learn by critically reading and presenting research will continue to enhance their research and clinical practice.