Building research capacity in Botswana: a randomized trial comparing training methodologies in the Botswana ethics training initiative.

Background: Little empirical data are available on the extent to which capacity-building programs in research ethics prepare trainees to apply ethical reasoning skills to the design, conduct, or review of research. A randomized controlled trial was conducted in Botswana in 2010 to assess the effectiveness of a case-based intervention using email to augment in-person seminars.

Methods: University faculty and current and prospective IRB/REC members took part in a semester-long training program in research ethics.