A/B Testing of User Enrollment Forms To Enhance Diversity In The Biomedical Workforce Via The National Research Mentoring Network: User-Centered Design Case Study

Authors

Toufeeq Ahmed Syed
Erika L Thompson
Jason Johnson
Zainab Latif
Nan Kennedy
Damaris Javier
Katie Stinson
Jamboor K Vishwanatha

Publication Date

7-2-2024

Journal

JMIR Human Factors

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The National Research Mentoring Network (NRMN) is a National Institutes of Health-funded program for diversifying the science, technology, engineering, math, and medicine research workforce through the provision of mentoring, networking, and professional development resources. The NRMN provides mentoring resources to members through its online platform-MyNRMN.

OBJECTIVE: MyNRMN helps members build a network of mentors. Our goal was to expand enrollment and mentoring connections, especially among those who have been historically underrepresented in biomedical training and the biomedical workforce.

METHODS: To improve the ease of enrollment, we implemented the split testing of iterations of our user interface for platform registration. To increase mentoring connections, we developed multiple features that facilitate connecting via different pathways.

RESULTS: Our improved user interface yielded significantly higher rates of completed registrations (P

CONCLUSIONS: Our technical efforts expanded MyNRMN's membership base and increased connections between members. Other platform development teams can learn from these efforts to increase enrollment among underrepresented groups and foster continuing, successful engagement.

Keywords

A/B testing, diversity, enrollment, groups, health workforce, mentoring, network of mentors, online platform, recommendation algorithm, split testing, underrepresented groups, user-computer interface

Comments

PMID: 38958216

DOI

10.2196/54532

PMID

38958216

PMCID

PMC11231449

PubMedCentral® Posted Date

July 2024

PubMedCentral® Full Text Version

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