Abstract
LEARNING OUTCOME:To evaluate the long-terra effectiveness of a new mixed model approach to distance education and to determine its impact on practice.A new “mixed model” approach for distance education (DE) combining satellite teleconferencing with hands-on activity sessions was evaluated nine months following the conference to determine its impact on practice. This new model was developed to adjust for many of the disadvantages associated with DE (e.g., difficult to personalize lessons) and traditional in-person training (e.g., costly and inefficient at reaching large audiences). The mixed model used a two-day mix of live teleconference speakers, video clips, interactive call-in sessions, and local sessions. We used this approach to teach Special Supplemental Food Program for Women Infants and Children (WIC) educators about facilitated group discussions (FGD), an innovative educational technique that involves interactive learning. Three general areas were included in the teleconference: 1) background and philosophy for nutrition education; 2) skill building exercises; and, 3) hands-on practice in small group settings. The conference was broadcast to 30 Southwestern sites. Pro- and immediately post-conference evaluation questionnaires (n=525) were administered and analyzed, then compared with the 9-months follow-up mail survey. The study is still in progress. Preliminary analysis (n=200; response rate=39%) indicates: Positive attitude towards teleconferences was maintained from post-conference (81%) to 9-months follow-up (80%), and was significantly higher than pre-conference (36%; p < .0001). At follow-up, 79% of participants indicated they still know how to implement FGD (vs. 86% post-conference), 70% indicated they can teach and model FGD to others (vs. 79% post-conference), and 59% reported having implemented FGD during their WIC education sessions (at post-conference 72% intended to implement FGD). Of those who responded at 9-months, 82% declared they would like to attend future teleconferences. Results clearly indicate an overwhelming positive response towards the new mixed model approach and show its long-term effectiveness at introducing and teaching new information and techniques to large audiences. We recommend it for other large-scale distance -education programs.
Published Version
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