Background
As advanced therapies and increasingly complex clinical trial designs become embedded within routine oncology care, hospitals are encountering a growing interface between clinical practice and clinical research. Under frameworks such as the National Clinical Trials Governance Framework, clinicians across multiple services may care for patients enrolled in trials despite limited exposure to research processes, protocol requirements, or trial-specific safety considerations. This variability can contribute to uncertainty, communication gaps, and inconsistent care when patients are managed outside specialist research environments.
Aim
To develop and pilot a modular education program to build clinical trial literacy and support safe care of trial participants through integration of clinical trial knowledge into routine care, in line with local governance expectations under the National Clinical Trials Governance Framework.
Methods
A voluntary, self-paced microlearning program was delivered across the Parkville Precinct. Modules supported progression from foundational trial concepts to clinical application, with explicit links to bedside care, escalation pathways, and common protocol-related procedures. Content was delivered via an online platform to enable flexible engagement.
Evaluation of the six-month pilot focused on participation, engagement, and learner experience, using platform analytics and post-module feedback.
Results
Over 200 learners enrolled across more than three organisations and 27 departments, including inpatient oncology, ambulatory services, diagnostics, and research teams. Participation patterns suggested strong voluntary uptake and sustained engagement.
Learners reported high relevance to clinical practice, improved understanding of trial workflows and communication processes, and increased confidence in managing trial-related considerations within their roles.
Conclusion
This pilot demonstrates the feasibility and acceptability of a modular, clinically integrated approach to building clinical trial literacy across a diverse nursing workforce. Findings suggest microlearning may support workforce capability for trial-enabled care, particularly where patients move between research and non-research settings. Further work will expand implementation, including acute haematology, and strengthen evaluation of impact on practice.