Writing research protocols: An innovative approach

Aims: To develop a mechanism to write three research protocols within 10 hours while simultaneously enhancing the research protocol writing skills of participants. Method: Members of the General Practitioners In Asthma Group (GPIAG) were invited to attend a research protocol workshop with pre- and post-workshop questionnaires. The main outcome measures were the development of three detailed research protocols and improvement in participants' perceived research protocol writing skills. Results: Three detailed research protocols were completed within the time allocated. Thirty (88%) participants completed pre- and post-workshop questionnaires. Participants believed there were improvements in their ability to formulate an answerable research question (p < 0.01), choose an appropriate methodology to answer the question (p < 0.01), choose appropriate outcome measures (p = 0.03), choose appropriate statistical methods (p = 0.01), devise a research timetable (p < 0.01), and improve their overall ability to write a research protocol (p < 0.01). Conclusion: It is possible to identify a mechanism, based on a weekend workshop, to write accelerated research protocols whilst simultaneously significantly increasing the research protocol writing skills of participants. This approach has potential to promote the development of research skills within primary care.