Research and Family Liaisons (RFL) Education
Research and family liaisons (RFLs) provide education to research staff in a variety of venues and formats. The purpose of the educational programming is to enhance the communication skills of research faculty and staff who present clinical research information to families.
The Consent, Assent and Parental Permission Mentoring Program (CAPP), offered quarterly, provides educational lecture/discussion sessions on topics such as ethics, research regulations, contextual issues of the consent conference and aspects specific to presenting study information to families with limited English proficiency.
Participants in the program observe other staff presenting study information to families. RFLs then observe each CAPP participant as they present information to families. Participants who attend all sessions and fulfill the mentoring portion of the program receive an official certificate of completion.
The Educational Film Project is a unique way that the RFL program is reaching beyond the borders of Seattle Children's. The project focuses on issues surrounding communication and the presentation of a research study. Two films, along with discussion guides for facilitators, have been created to encourage conversation and awareness of the practical aspects of conducting research with human participants. The films are not intended to represent reality, but are meant to be an entertaining and engaging catalyst for discussion about serious topics relevant to staff who work with families and research participants.