Professional Development Research Articles

Understanding Minoritized Educators’ Experiences with Secondary Trauma During COVID-19

This mixed-methods study examined the ways that K-12 educators with minoritized racial/ethnic identities and/or gender identities as well as sexualities experienced secondary trauma during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through a national survey of 1,194 K-12 educators and 24 follow-up interviews, we found that BIPOC and LGBQ+ educators experienced greater rates of childhood trauma, which was correlated with a greater risk of secondary trauma for all individuals in our sample. Additionally, educators with minoritized gender identities reported greater rates of experiencing secondary trauma. Qualitative interviews with minoritized educators added to these findings, revealing the necessity of structural support for educators as opposed to a sole focus on self-care, inadequacy of trauma-related professional development, and minoritized educators’ commitment to improving the lives of their students who have experienced trauma as a result of their own traumatic experiences. These results have implications for educational administrators and policymakers regarding the interconnectedness of trauma and identity.

A EFICÁCIA DO TELETRABALHO APLICADO AO MENOR APRENDIZ À LUZ DA CLT

The adoption of teleworking has gained prominence in recent decades, especially as a result of technological transformations and the recent pandemic that accelerated its implementation. In the context of the Consolidation of Labor Laws (CLT), teleworking presents specific nuances and implications, particularly with regard to minor apprentices, who are in the training and professional development phase, and who face particularities that deserve attention when considering the effectiveness of this type of work. The purpose of this text is to discuss how teleworking, in light of the CLT, can be na effective alternative for young learners, analyzing the benefits, challenges and the need for legal adaptations to guarantee na enriching and safe learning experience.

Analyzing trends and practices: A survey of procedures performed by nurse practitioners

ABSTRACT Background: Nurse practitioners (NPs) provide essential patient care services. Most (88%) are primary care certified, and 70% practice in primary care settings. National NP organizations and state practice authority regulations influence the training and level of independence of performing procedures common in primary care practice. National standards reference the ability to select and interpret appropriate diagnostic tests related to clinical reasoning or management functions, but not competency in the procedures. Although the blueprint for certification examinations includes procedures as part of evidence-informed practice, none are specifically named. Purpose: There are limited data concerning procedural training for NPs. The study aims were to describe the training practicing NPs received for procedures they perform, define areas of research concerning the development of uniform training, and identify advocacy initiatives for competency acquisition for procedures. Methodology: Practicing NPs completed a survey concerning the procedures they perform in their practice. In addition, they reported their level of perceived competency, independence in performing, and method of training. Results: The majority of respondents (87.8%) hold certifications in primary care specialties. In this sample of practicing NPs, 74% of the respondents perform procedures independently, but only 67% had procedure training as part of their initial NP education. Additional training (60%) was completed through professional development programs. Conclusions: Many NPs surveyed perform procedures independently. Training occurred in their NP programs and through continuing education. Implications: Further studies are needed concerning procedural training and the setting that is most appropriate for competency achievement.

Rumination as a Moderator of the Relation between Childhood Adversity Exposure and College Students’ Psychological Distress

American college students (N = 598) completed self-report questionnaires assessing rumination, psychological distress while attending college (general distress, anhedonic depression, anxious arousal), and exposure to specific types of childhood adversity (i.e., emotional abuse, sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional neglect, and physical neglect). Latent Moderated Structural Equation Modeling indicated that 1) rumination was associated with all three indicators of psychological distress and 2) rumination moderated associations between childhood adversity exposure and college students’ reports of general distress and anxious arousal such that associations were strongest at higher levels of rumination and weaker at lower levels of rumination. Implications regarding higher education professionals’ efforts to support college student well-being are discussed.

Abstract 4136975: Lipoprotein (a) Discovery Project: Assessing Patient and Professional Education Needs

Introduction: It is estimated that 1 in 5 Americans have high lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] levels. High levels of Lp(a) are an independent, predominantly inherited, and causal risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). More investigation is needed to better understand the gaps in both professional and patient education on Lp(a) and its associated risk with ASCVD. Goals: The American Heart Association (AHA) is implementing a national 3-year initiative called the Lp(a) Discovery Project to understand system-level practice patterns for patients screened for high Lp(a) and develop models for national education. We aim to gauge an understanding of healthcare professional (HCP) and patient awareness, perceptions, knowledge, and behaviors of Lp(a) to develop a comprehensive educational approach that ultimately encourages patient-provider shared decision-making. Methods: To assess patient education needs, an online survey was conducted from October 11 to November 6, 2023, by Harris Insights&Analytics LLC with a nationally representative sample of 3,006 U.S. adults 18 years+. To assess professional education needs, the AHA engaged 10 champions from diverse health systems with established Lp(a) screening processes and workflows to participate in a Learning Healthcare System model to share best practices, inform on models for Lp(a) screening, and provide input on professional education topics. Results: The patient survey revealed that 34% of adults do not perceive high Lp(a) to pose an increased risk of heart attack, peripheral artery disease or stroke. If told that high Lp(a) does increase this risk, 63% are motivated to have their Lp(a) level checked and 88% would be motivated to reduce their risk for these conditions if they had high Lp(a). Ultimately, HCP recommendation was the most significant driver in getting screened among those who had their Lp(a) measured (61%). AHA-led champion interviews revealed that primary and specialty care HCPs need education on the importance of Lp(a) testing and cascade screening for family members as well as care considerations for patients with high Lp(a). Conclusion: Given that patients are most likely to be screened for Lp(a) if their HCP recommends it, we will focus on 1) educating patients and HCPs on the connection between Lp(a) and risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke and 2) providing HCPs with guidance on care considerations for those with high Lp(a) including cascade screening.

Flattening Hierarchies and Encouraging Reflection: Systems Maps as a Local Literacy Practice

In this study, we explore systems thinking maps as a local literacy practice in a systems thinking professional development institute for PreK-8 teachers. Existing literature underscores the necessity of equipping teachers with a robust understanding of systems thinking; this study addresses a call in the research to find ways to do so. Rooted in the principles of systems thinking, professional development, and literacy practices, we analyze how the literacy practice of systems thinking mapping contributed to participant pedagogical reflection and systems thinking theory development. We employed a case study approach, allowing an in-depth investigation of the mapping literacy events within the professional development setting. We collected data throughout the four days of the professional development; the data set included observations and recordings of mapping sessions, reflections on mapping from 29 participants, and photographs of the systems maps created. Our results highlight the potential of systems thinking maps to foster collective understandings of systems thinking, deepen understandings via the co-construction of dynamic texts, and imagine pedagogical possibilities. The literacy practice not only strengthens participants’ grasp of systems but also creates a shared space for collaborative learning, flattening hierarchies and engaging teachers as co-learners. The implications extend to disrupting traditional professional structures, emphasizing the centrality of the learner while fostering hope, optimism, and agency. This study contributes valuable insights into literacy practices that promote collaborative learning among teachers, encouraging a shift toward more inclusive and transformative professional development.

Abstract 4138273: Acceptability and Gain of Knowledge of Community Educational Tools About Rheumatic Heart Disease Integrated With Screening In Low-Income Settings

Background: Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) causes 305,000 premature annual deaths, and education is one of the strategies to diminish disease burden. International RHD foundations aim do provide preventive and control efforts for RHD. We aimed to assess the acceptability and gain of knowledge of a series of education flipcharts presented during screening programs in high-burden areas of Brazil. Methods: Four flipcharts (“Introduction to rheumatic fever (RF) and RHD”, “RHD and pregnancy”, “RHD and surgery” and “RHD community awareness”) were developed over 3 years and taught during 36 months to patients, community, health and education professionals in Minas Gerais state. Training included in-person interactions and virtual workshops. Pre and post-training questionnaires were applied through an online and printed surveys in 2021 and 2022, and post-education evaluations were conducted from January 2023 to April, 2024. Results: Flipchart training was successfully delivered to 112 education professionals, 574 health providers and 598 community members (N=1284): 899 (70%) were enrolled in primary care, and 1109 (86%) responded the surveys. Among respondents of the survey for health and education professionals (N=589), 240 (41%) had been educated about RHD in the previous year. 569 (96%) learned any new information; the content was all new for 21 (4%). Nearly all professionals reported that flipcharts could improve patients’ lives (571, 97%) and felt confident to use the tool with someone with no knowledge about RHD (533, 91%); 86% of the teachers said they would use flipcharts as educational tools. In the survey for community / schoolchildren (N=520) only 128 (25%) respondents had previous education on RHD, 510 (98%) reported that learned new information, and content was completely new for 242 (47%). A total of 430 (83%) individuals reported that they will discuss RHD with families and community. All qualitative written reports were positive. In 2021/2022, 218/485 (45%) health and education professionals responded the pre/post questionnaire. Knowledge about RHD increased after training: RF as the cause of RHD (56% vs 86%), use of Benzathine Penicillin G (50% vs 97%), frequency of antibiotic prophylaxis (32% vs 90%) and overall moderate or expert understanding of RF or RHD (30% vs 82%). Conclusion: Flipchart educational sessions about RHD had a very positive acceptability in high-risk Brazilian populations, with remarkable gain of knowledge for health professionals.

Abstract 4114714: Impact of Cardiology Interest Groups on the Professional Development of Medical Students

Background: Launched in 2023, the American College of Cardiology Medical Student Member Community (ACC MSMC) began recognizing Cardiology Interest Groups (CIGs) at medical schools worldwide. This initiative fosters a robust network among ACC medical student members and celebrates their contributions within their institutions and broader communities. We surveyed medical students from 50 recognized CIGs to evaluate the influence of this network on their members' career trajectories. Methods: An anonymous web-based survey was sent to 50 student leaders of CIGs recognized by the ACC from 20 countries and was distributed to their members. The objective was to evaluate the impact of their involvement in these groups on their clinical knowledge, research activities and publications, professional advancement, and the promotion of diversity and equity. Results: Of 215 respondents (71% ACC members), 49.3% identified as female, with significant representation from Asia (35.7%), and the USA (17.6%). The majority joined CIGs to explore cardiology as a career path (61%), build professional networks (60%), and participate in specialized workshops (59.5%). Most rated their access to CIG resources as excellent (73.8%), supporting ACC's mission to enhance diversity and inclusion. Regarding educational outcomes, 48.6% rated their knowledge acquisition in cardiology as excellent, and 41% noted excellent preparation for a cardiology career. Additionally, 26.4% of students published research papers post-CIG involvement, with 39% attending ACC or AHA conferences. Survey feedback also highlighted strong networking (38.6% excellent) and mentoring opportunities (36.2% excellent) provided by CIGs. Conclusions: CIGs significantly enrich medical students' professional development by offering extensive networking, education, research, and mentorship opportunities. They play a crucial role in nurturing a global interest in cardiology, thereby enhancing diversity within the field. This model serves as a valuable blueprint for other scientific societies considering the establishment of student interest groups.

Effectiveness of an intervention to improve pharmacovigilance among selected government hospitals in a district of Sri Lanka

Introduction: Issues related to doctors' pharmacovigilance exist due to their lack of knowledge and the challenges of a rapidly changing society. In addition, issues exist with the subject's existing systems. Proper intervention with a comprehensive system of pharmacovigilance can resolve these problems.Objective: This research is intended to assess the knowledge, perception, and practices of pharmacovigilance among medical officers in a district of Sri Lanka with surveillance systems through interventions.Methodology: A pre-and post-intervention design research study was conducted among 237 doctors in the curative sector in the Hambanthota district. All the doctors in these hospitals were considered the study population, and no sampling method was employed. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data using active and passive surveillance data systems and workshops.Results: The results indicated that most of the doctors were from the 31-40 age category (55.3%), females (53.59%), preliminary and grade 2 medical officers (67.1%, 37.6%) who are working in the base hospitals (64.1%) of the area with a basic medical degree (90.8%). A large proportion of them (67.5%) had training in this area as undergraduates (25%). The overall knowledge of pharmacovigilance was poor (69.7%). The overall perception was positive (53.2%). Overall, practices were poor. Knowledge and perception have improved with the intervention.Conclusion and recommendations: This research revealed poor general knowledge, practices, and a positive perception regarding pharmacovigilance, which improved through an intervention. Substantial consideration should be paid to including those topics in undergraduate and postgraduate curricula. Continuous professional development and in-service training programmes should be arranged for doctors with a comprehensive system of surveillance.

Re-visiting women’s work motivations and career needs: international evidence from the perspective of self-determination theory

Purpose The study explores the work motivations and career needs of women, drawing on self-determination theory. The study aims to develop motivation theories and support organisations to shape the work environment addressing women’s work motivations and current career needs. Design/methodology/approach The exploratory study was conducted based on two research questions: Why do women change jobs? What are women looking for in a new workplace? To conduct this study, an online questionnaire with open-ended questions was prepared. Respondents were women who had applied for an administrative job post in Brazil, Mexico, Poland, Portugal and State of Palestine. Collected answers from 363 respondents were analysed by using Nvivo software. Findings This study presents women’s work motivations and career needs that affect the decision to change the job. Results indicate that women’s work motivations include four components: 1 − career growth (career development, skills improvement, challenges), 2 − competitive compensation (financial, personal fulfilment), 3 − work environment (organisational culture, work-life balance) and 4 − leadership (recognition, management leadership skills). Additionally, the study highlights four components of women’s current career needs: 1 − career growth (continuous professional development, challenges, training skills), 2 − competitive compensation (financial/fair pay, personal fulfilment), 3 − work environment (cooperation/teamwork, adequate tools, respect and safety) and 4 − leadership (clear organisation goals, communication/empathy, recognition, support). Originality/value Based on collected data, components of women’s work motivations and career needs were identified. The results provide contemporary and international evidence about the complex nature of women’s work motivations and career needs.

The School of Bunesti, Arges, Romania: Hand-made Architecture, A Craft of Self-limitation

Weary of the present-day inflation of possibilities for planning, building, learning, and living, and with an increasingly acute sense of the artificiality of our professional training, we—a historian, an architect, and a small group of students—chose to get away from urban scenery and to put ourselves to the test through a summer. We settled in the middle of a forest, giving ourselves time for reflection and action from a radically different perspective. Inspired by classic authors and classical culture, since 2008 we have been taking the local natural building techniques of a Wallachian valley as a guide to the timeless topography of the ancient world.

Can AI-powered avatars replace human trainers? An empirical test of synthetic humanlike spokesperson applications

Purpose This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of widely adopted but under-studied synthetic humanlike spokespersons (SHS) compared to organic human spokespersons in workplace training videos. The primary aim is to evaluate whether employees will rate training videos more negatively when they perceive their trainer to be synthetic such as those videos made with the AI-powered tools Synthesia or HeyGen. Results suggest that while ratings are more negative when the viewer perceives syntheticness, the change is only mild across most measures deployed here. When measures were calculated by using actual modality and not perceived modality, no significant change in rating was found. This study deployed three measures: actual knowledge transfer, perceived effectiveness and brand impression. It is guided by a convergence of AI Literacy Theory, the Technology Acceptance Model and the Theory of Reasoned Action. Design/methodology/approach Over 250 professionals assessed the effectiveness of training videos in a 2 × 2 trial design. Participants were randomly assigned to view one of four training videos featuring either a synthetic or organic spokesperson for a fictional business. After watching the video, participants answered Likert-scale survey questions and multiple-choice quiz-style questions to provide comparative measurements of actual knowledge transfer effectiveness, perceived effectiveness, brand impression and the effectiveness of the synthetic deception. The study used both ANOVA and multiple regression analyses to control for potential confounding variables and ensure the robustness of the findings. Findings The results indicate no significant differences between SHS and organic human spokespersons in terms of actual effectiveness (quiz scores), perceived effectiveness or brand impression, based on actual modality comparisons. However, when respondents perceived syntheticness, the avatar triggered the negative uncanny valley phenomenon and slightly decreased overall scores in perceived effectiveness and brand impression. Notably, more than half of respondents did not detect that the SHS was synthetic. Demographic variables such as gender, age or household income had no significant impact on the results. Practical implications Organizations can justifiably consider incorporating SHS into their training programs, leveraging these synthetic agents to deliver cost-effective and scalable learning solutions. The findings suggest that SHS can be used effectively for goals such as actual knowledge transfer without compromising training quality, and that other perceptual goals may be within reach as well. This may offer a viable alternative to traditional, organic human spokespersons, opening up new opportunities for enhancing training efficiency and accessibility across various industries. Originality/value Synthetic avatars, as outlined here, are a demonstrably effective new option in the array of available learning technologies. They are being adopted en masse but without significant study of their effectiveness. This research provides foundational quantitative assessments designed to address that gap in the literature and practice. The data presented here is highly valuable for practitioners and scholars interested in cutting-edge learning tools. Given the rapid advancement of technology, this study provides an important benchmark for evaluating future improvements in these tools. Furthermore, it offers actionable recommendations for integrating AI-powered avatars into professional development, enhancing understanding of the roles advanced technologies play in educational and training programs.

Strategies for Enhancing Employee Morale in the Workplace: A Comprehensive Approach

This article examined staff morale and its improvement methods. According to recent research, boosting staff morale boosts productivity, retention, and business culture. Employee rewards, open communication, and real-time feedback were crucial short-term and long-term initiatives. Objectives included career advancement, professional growth, flexible work arrangements, and an inclusive workplace. Many companies struggle to match short-term decisions with long-term objectives and tailor morale-boosting programmes to various employee demands. Morale-boosting approaches were evaluated. The research offered real suggestions for improving staff morale. According to the research study, a friendly workplace, recognition, work-life balance, professional development, diversity and inclusion, and effective leadership boost employee morale. Leadership and targeted recognition programmes were crucial to boosting morale, as these characteristics demonstrated. Organisations encouraged friendly work cultures, individual recognition, work-life balance, professional growth, diversity, and inclusion. These methods boosted morale, productivity, and company culture. Keywords: Employee morale, Organizational success, Productivity, Employee retention, Business Culture.

Forensic and legal medicine in Chile: Cinderella without a prince.

Forensic medicine is of enormous importance in the functioning of contemporary justice systems worldwide. Therefore, in order to characterize the current state of medicolegal and forensic activity in Chile, a non-systematic review of the biomedical and legal literature on the subject was carried out. An analysis of open sources of information was also incorporated, including the National Registry of Individual Health Care Providers, the latest public accounts of the Forensic Medical Service, relevant background information available on the active transparency portal of that institution, exempt resolutions included in the "Chile Law" database (of the Department of Legislative and Documentary Services of the Library of the National Congress) and the lists of judicial experts appointed by the Courts of Appeals of the country for the biennium 2024 to 2025. We note that Chile maintains an unacceptable historical debt in terms of academic development and training of qualified professionals in forensic matters. Likewise, national scientific productivity in this field is practically null. Currently, forensic medicine is the medical specialty with the deepest shortage of professionals nationwide. Consequently, as in the early part of the last century, medical expert opinions are frequently performed by professionals untrained in forensic medicine. This scenario, taking into account the attitudes of certain lawyers and judges (detailed in the article), increases the risk of a miscarriage of justice. National public policies must take urgent action to address the deficits and provide solutions.

ENDOCARDITE BACTERIANA E PROFILAXIA ANTIBIÓTICA NA ODONTOLOGIA: MANEJO E PREVENÇÃO EM PACIENTES DE RISCO

This study addresses bacterial endocarditis, a severe inflammatory condition of the endocardium caused by the colonization of pathogenic bacteria or fungi. The objective was to analyze and synthesize evidence regarding risk factors, pathogenic mechanisms, diagnostic methods, prevention strategies, and therapeutic approaches for this disease, with an emphasis on the relationship between oral infections and bacterial endocarditis. A literature review was conducted, selecting articles from the PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar databases published between 2011 and 2024, using specific keywords: "Bacterial Endocarditis," "Oral Infections," "Antibiotic Prophylaxis," "Dental Biofilm," and applying rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure the relevance and quality of the studies. The literature unanimously indicates that antibiotic prophylaxis is the best way to prevent the development of bacterial endocarditis (BE), particularly in patients with risk factors, such as those with congenital heart diseases or valve prostheses. Administering antibiotics before procedures that may cause bacteremia is essential to reduce the risk of infection. Effective prevention involves not only antibiotic prophylaxis but also continuous education for patients and healthcare professionals about the importance of maintaining oral health to prevent systemic complications. The adoption of preventive measures can significantly reduce the incidence of BE, especially in individuals with preexisting heart conditions. In this sense, dentistry plays a vital role, as dental procedures can cause temporary bacteremia, and collaboration between healthcare professionals and dentists is crucial to ensure the protection of these patients.

Examining the Financial Literacy of Healthcare Professionals: A Research on a Provincial Health Directorate.

This research aimed to assess the financial literacy levels of healthcare professionals working at a Provincial Health Directorate and examine their relationships with various financial domains. The study utilized a cross-sectional online survey. The financial literacy scale was employed to assess the financial knowledge and compentencies of healthcare professionals, providing a structured evaluation of their understandig across various financial domains. Statistical analyses, including correlation analysis, independent samples t-test, and one-way ANOVA, were performed using SPSS-25 and R programs. A total of 240 participants took part, comprising 52.1% males and 47.9% females, aged between 20 and 65 years. Younger healthcare professionals (p=.017) and males (p=.001) demonstrated higher financial literacy levels. Significant correlations were found between financial literacy and domains such as investment instruments, debt and risk management, and personal finance management. Weak but positive relationships were observed between financial literacy and digital assets, indicating emerging trends in digital finance awareness. For instance, males exhibited higher proficiency in investment instruments and debt management, while younger professionals displayed higher knowledge in investment areas. The findings underscore the importance of targeted financial education for healthcare professionals, highlighting the need for sector-specific training programs. Enhanced financial literacy is essential for improving financial decision-making, ultimately benefiting both personal financial well-being and professional performance in the healthcare sector.

Delivery of Supported Self-Management in Primary Care Asthma Reviews: Insights From the IMP2ART Programme.

Supported self-management (SSM) for asthma reduces the risk of asthma attacks and improves asthma control and quality of life. SSM optimally includes patient-centred communication and behaviour change support, however, the extent to which this occurs in routine primary care is unclear. This project was nested within the IMPlementing IMProved Asthma self-management as RouTine (IMP2ART) programme; a UK-wide trial evaluating an implementation strategy (including healthcare professional (HCP) training on behaviour change strategies and patient-centred care) to improve support for asthma self-management. To provide an understanding of how healthcare professionals deliver SSM in UK clinical practice; through assessing time spent on SSM strategies, how and to what extent patient-centred care and behaviour change discussions are delivered, and to explore whether factors such as mode of review or implementation support influence delivery. We conducted an observational study using video-recordings of 12 HCPs delivering routine face-to-face and telephone asthma reviews (n = 64) in a sample of general practices participating in the IMP2ART trial (implementation n = 4; control n = 6). Analytical methods included: ALFA Toolkit Multi-Channel Video Observation (to code and quantify tasks undertaken); the Patient-Centred Observation Form; and The Behaviour Change Counselling Index (to assess patient-centeredness and behaviour change counselling used by HCPs). HCPs mostly spent time during routine asthma reviews discussing: an individual's asthma condition and management (average of 27.8% of consultation time); collaboratively reviewing and completing a personalised asthma action plan (6.3%) and training for practical self-management activities (5.4%). Areas of patient-centred care delivery and behavioural discussions included: creating and maintaining relationships, discussing asthma action plans and medication reconciliation. Professionals in IMP2ART implementation group practices delivered more SSM strategies. Comparison of face-to-face and remote consultations found no significant differences in HCP delivery of SSM. HCPs in UK primary care spent half the time in both face-to-face and remote asthma reviews delivering components of SSM suggesting that either mode of delivery may be acceptable. Reviews carried out in IMP2ART implementation group practices demonstrated more behaviour change and collaborative SSM strategies compared to those in the control group. Asthma UK Centre for Applied Research (AUKCAR) PPI members were involved throughout, including project conception, providing feedback on participant-facing documents, and discussing implications of study findings.

Assessment of Training Needs of the Office staff (Management assistants and Development Officers) in the National Hospital of Sri Lanka

Introduction: In the dynamic landscape of healthcare administration, the role of hospital office staff is pivotal for maintaining the seamless functioning of the hospital. Training Needs Assessment is a proactive approach to aligning the skills of hospital office staff with the evolving demands of the healthcare landscape, ensuring compliance and promoting excellence in administrative practices and, consequently, contributing to improved patient outcomes.Objective: This study aims to identify the training needs of hospital office staff in the National Hospital of Sri Lanka (NHSL).Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in NHSL with the office staff from June to August 2023. The total population was 181. Among them, 123 people were selected from simple random sampling proportionately to the category. The self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. The questionnaire assessed the activities and capabilities of office staff necessary for their daily tasks. Participants were asked to score these activities based on their importance and current performance level. Mean scores for the importance of the training areas and current performances were calculated, and gaps were identified by subtracting. Training needs with the highest gaps (gap equal or more than 2) were prioritized as training needs for office staff in NHSL.Results: Procurement for the public sector, handling audit inquiries, file management including personal file management, salary conversion, pension management, gathering, organizing, analyzing statistically, & disseminating data and information were prioritized as training needs for next year.Conclusions and recommendations: Those prioritized training needs were included in the next year's (2024) annual action plan with the permission of the Deputy Director General -NHSL.

Experiences and perceptions of migrant populations in South Africa on COVID-19 immunization: an interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Migrant populations (asylum seekers, permit holders, refugees, and undocumented migrants) living in South Africa face various individual, social, and physical circumstances that underpin their decisions, motivation, and ability to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. We conducted a qualitative study to explore the experiences and perceptions of migrant populations in South Africa on COVID-19 vaccines to inform recommendations for improved COVID-19 immunization. We conducted an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) with 20 asylum seekers, permit holders, refugees, and undocumented migrants living in South Africa. We applied a maximum variation purposive sampling approach to capture all three categories of migrants in South Africa. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and recorded electronically with consent and permission from the study participants. The recordings were transcribed and analyzed thematically following the IPA using Atlas.ti version 9. Four major reflective themes emanated from the data analysis. (1) While some migrants perceived being excluded from the South African national immunization program at the level of advertisement and felt discriminated against at the immunization centers, others felt included in the program at all levels. (2) Skepticism, myths, and conspiracy theories around the origin of SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 vaccine are pervasive among migrant populations in South Africa. (3) There is a continuum of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance/hesitancy ranging from being vaccinated through waiting for the chance to be vaccinated to refusal. (4) Accepting the vaccine or being hesitant follows the beliefs of the participant, knowledge of the vaccine's benefits, and lessons learned from others already vaccinated. COVID-19 vaccine inclusiveness, awareness, and uptake should be enhanced through migrant-aware policies and actions such as community mobilization, healthcare professional training, and mass media campaigns.

Factors Contributing to English Fluency Paucities among Secondary Level Students: Perspective Dinajpur Education Board, Bangladesh

This study examines the factors contributing to English fluency paucity among secondary-level students in the Dinajpur Education Board, Bangladesh. Despite the prominence of English as a global language, students in this region face significant challenges in achieving fluency. The research identified key factors such as inadequate teaching methods, lack of exposure to English outside the classroom, limited access to English learning materials, socio-economic barriers, and insufficient emphasis on speaking and listening skills in the curriculum. Data was collected through surveys, interviews, and classroom observations, involving both students and teachers. The findings suggest that while students possess a basic understanding of English grammar and vocabulary, their ability to use the language in conversational settings remains limited. Furthermore, socio-cultural attitudes towards English and insufficient teacher training also play a role in hindering fluency development. The study recommends improvements in curriculum design, teacher professional development, and the promotion of interactive English language learning environments. Addressing these challenges could significantly enhance students’ fluency and better prepare them for academic and professional opportunities.