Improving diversity in research: Successes and limitations of research team education in fostering inclusive recruitment practices and community voice

Background The lack of diversity in research participation poses a threat to health equity and the ethical principle of justice. Yet few evidence-based interventions exist. This study compared two educational programs for research teams, designed to build capacity for inclusive recruitment practices.Methods This parallel cluster randomized trial compared outcomes generated by an anti-bias focused educational workshop and one emphasizing pro-diversity learning. The evaluation consisted of pre-/post-intervention (n = 124) and 3-month follow-up surveys (n = 83). Regression analysis was employed to evaluate program efficacy, and the adoption of simple behaviors comparing groups at follow-up while controlling for pre-measurement levels and utilizing propensity weights. Interviews (n = 33) with participants explored experiences post-intervention.Results There were no statistically significant differences in outcomes between the test and control groups. Both workshop versions increased participants’ self-efficacy and simple behaviors, including “thinking about community perspectives” and “identifying ways to increase community voice” at follow-up. Participants in the test group were the only ones to show a significant increase (within group) in “making suggestions” to their teams about using inclusive strategies (p = .02) and in increasing community voice (p = .00). Qualitative data indicate that pro-diversity activities provided participants with concrete ideas for suggestions and revealed persistent barriers faced by post-intervention.