Development of an interdisciplinary journal club concept at a University of Applied Sciences

Abstract

Objective: The aims were to investigate the requirements for a Journal Club at a University of Applied Sciences and to explore the factors which can contribute to it’s longevity. The objectives of this research were furthermore to develop a final and consensus-reaching concept, which will serve as a basis for implementing a new JC.
Method: A qualitative approach (adapted Delphi method and expert group discussions) was adopted. The oral data was analyzed using Mayrings´ qualitative content analysis.
Results: The final concept encloses the following elements: creating greater attractiveness for recruiting more participants, increasing exchange and communication between disciplines and locations; intensifying the cooperation between the study programs and the development of comprehensive scientific competencies. A distribution of roles and tasks was planned and described for the organization team. Suitable appraisal and evaluation tools were located and translated.
Conclusion: The Journal Club will be set up four times a year, rotating to one of the university’s five locations with maximum active staff members’ participation, including different scientific designs and interdisciplinary topics to facilitate capacity-building.
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Keywords: Journal Club, concept