Prioritise adequately powered multicentre comparative studies linked to objective metrics and clinical correlation, and develop standardised competency assessment frameworks¶

Strategy · All strategies
Evidence · 4 claims (4 for) · 1 study (1 review), q2 · 0 of 1 report an effect size · 4 claims rest on one study

Description¶

The review's forward-looking recommendation is that evaluation of technology-enhanced basic robotic skills learning requires "Adequately powered, multicentre, comparative studies, ideally linked to objective performance metrics and clinical correlation". It also states that standardised competency assessment frameworks are required to evaluate rapidly progressing tools, and identifies gaps in augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and docking and setup training. The recommendation follows directly from the review's findings of small single-centre studies and low-to-very-low certainty of evidence.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Standardised competency assessment frameworks to evaluate rapidly progressing tools
• Objective performance metrics linked to clinical correlation

Constraints¶

• Current evidence base is limited by small, mostly single-centre studies and low to very low certainty

Target Learners¶

• novice robotic surgeons
• surgical trainees
• medical students

Target Learning Goals¶

• basic robotic skills training
• competency assessment
• docking and setup skills

Claims¶

• Evidence for technology-enhanced basic robotic skills training is concentrated at Kirkpatrick level 2, with no studies reporting transfer to operative behaviour or patient outcomes [+W]
• Multimodal feedback systems produced greater simulator score improvements than conventional feedback in basic robotic skills training [+W]
• Pre-training educational video review improved simulator scores and shortened the learning curve but temporarily increased completion time [+W]
• Adjunctive VR classroom training produces higher validated robotic skills scores than self-directed simulator learning alone in novice trainees [+W]

Related Strategies¶

• Develop standardised validated content-assessment tools and theory-based guidelines for TST video creators
• Prioritize larger sample sizes, multicentre designs, and rigorous reporting in future simulation-based CRM transfer and patient-outcome research

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Shakir T, Lingam G, Boal M, Francis N, Chand M. (2026). Technology-enhanced training in basic robotic surgical skills: a systematic review. Journal of Robotic Surgery. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11701-026-03633-w