Training Opportunities to Augment Learning (TOTAL)
In order to maintain a strong STEM workforce, graduate and postdoctoral training in biomedical research must consider the vast array of research-related careers, and as education has traditionally been directed toward academic research careers, training must be reevaluated and geared toward skill-development for all career options. Here, we developed a technology-driven approach to collaborating and providing access to professional development activities by sharing programming across Boston University departments/colleges as well as other area institutions. Skill-based and career exploration activities are developed with workforce needs in mind. With data to support feasibility, this web application can potentially be adapted for use by additional Boston area institutions and their trainees, by other regions, by alumni and those in areas without access to professional development opportunities, the latter by making these opportunities available online. In addition, the approach can be applied to professional development opportunities in other disciplines throughout the university.
Project Announcement
New Digital Platform Connects Biomedical Trainees to Boston-based Professional Development Events
We are pleased to announce the launch of Training Opportunities To Augment Learning (TOTAL), a digital platform that allows biomedical trainees to sign-up to attend career and professional development events that are held at collaborating institutions in the Boston Area (Boston University, MassBioEd, Northeastern University, Tufts University, UMass Boston and UMass Med). On TOTAL, users can select the skills and career trajectories of interest to them. Then, via phone app or email, they will be apprised of those ‘tagged’ events that address their stated interests and they can reserve a spot to attend.
Tips to connect:
Those interested in this free tool that gives access to career and professional development activities in the Greater Boston Area can make an account here using their University e-mail address: https://mytotalcareer.org/register.
Android: Visit mytotalcareers.org on your phone and there will be a pop-up with the option to add the App to your Home Screen (with the option after to receive notifications).
iOS: Visit mytotalcareers.org in Safari (this will not work on Google). Click the “share” button in the bottom middle of the Safari screen and click “Add to Home Screen.” Visit here for more instructions on how to add to your iOS phone.
Project Team & Partners
Barbara Schreiber is Associate Professor of Biochemistry and serves as director of the GMS Program in Biomedical Sciences (PiBS), director of graduate studies for the Department of Biochemistry, and course manager of the biochemistry class taught to first-year BU dental students and Oral Health Sciences…
