Virtual Curriculum Delivery in the COVID-19 era: The Pediatric Surgery Boot Camp v2.0

Purpose: We evaluated the impact of a virtual Pediatric Surgery Bootcamp curriculum on resource utilization, learner engagement, knowledge retention, and stakeholder satisfaction. Methods: : A virtual curriculum was developed around Pediatric Surgery Milestones. GlobalCastMD delivered pre-recorded and live content over a single 10-hour day with a concluding social hour. Metrics of learner engagement, faculty interaction, knowledge retention, and satisfaction were collected and analyzed during and after the course. Results: : Of 56 PS residencies, 31 registered (55.4%; 8/8 Canadian and 23/48 US; p=0.006), including 42 learners overall. The virtual BC budget was $15,500 (USD), 54% of the anticipated in-person course.. Pre- and post-tests were administered, revealing significant knowledge improvement (48.6% [286/589] vs 66.9% [89/133] p<0.0002). Learner surveys (n=14) suggested the virtual BC facilitated fellowship transition (85%) and strengthened peer-group camaraderie (69%), but in-person events were still favored (77%). Program Directors (PD) were surveyed, and respondents (n=22) also favored in-person events (61%). PDs not registering their learners (n=7) perceived insufficient value-added and concern for excessive participants. Conclusions: : The virtual bootcamp format reduced overall expenses, interfered less with schedules, achieved more inclusive reach, and facilitated content archiving. Despite these advantages, learners and program directors still favored in-person education.