Accountability in Research (2026)
Authors: Susan Racine Passmore, Roger Brown, Morgan Medina, Kat Phelps, Mariana Garcia & Gina Green-Harris
Abstract:
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