Individualized Training Plan
The Individualized Training Plan (ITP), an evaluation tool developed by rehabilitation researchers at USC, enables an assessment of the extent to which students and trainees achieve the individualized goals they identify for themselves in conjunction with structured postdoctoral training programs. Currently being pilot-tested among a sample of postdoctoral trainees at USC, the ITP targets each trainee's individualized learning needs and monitors his or her performance and progress throughout the training program.
The ITP is administered quarterly and includes an evaluation of progress towards goals and objectives; an assessment of research practices and core competencies in the areas of research productivity, research management, and grantsmanship; and a narrative self-assessment. Trainees' individualized goals and objectives may vary, but commonly include elements such as submission of publications, conference presentations, training in specific research methodologies, or development of prototypes for data collection. ITPs are monitored quarterly by mentors and individualized feedback is provided, which may include recommendations for improvements in research practices, acquisition of core competencies, and achievement of general program and individualized objectives.
Click here to view a prototype of the Individualized Training Plan currently in pilot-testing at USC.