Gaps In Training Research Articles

Urethral instrumentation in men with artificial urinary sphincter: a national survey among Brazilian urologists.

Urethral instrumentation (UI) in patients with an artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) demands technical considerations and poses a risk of urethral erosion, leading to serious clinical and legal consequences. We conducted a national survey to evaluate the knowledge and experience of Brazilian urologists with UI in these patients. This study used an electronic survey distributed to members of the Brazilian Society of Urology. The survey included 19 multiple-choice questions assessing sociodemographic characteristics, practice patterns, AUS training, knowledge of AUS components and functionality, experience with UI in AUS patients, and interest in further training. Urologists were classified as 'competent' in AUS manipulation if they had prior experience and confidence in performing UI. Among 536 participants (median age 47years [39-55]), 72.8% reported involvement in urological emergencies, with 89.9% indicating inadequate AUS training during residency. Only 29.7% had occasional or regular involvement with AUS surgeries. Of the participants, 53.4% had performed UI in men with an AUS. Prior UI had been attempted by healthcare staff in 36.2% of cases. Only 46.8% reported knowledge of AUS components and 45.1% felt competent in deactivating it. Regarding urethral catheterization, 47.2% knew the safe catheter diameter, and 20.9% identified safe catheterization duration. Overall, 45.1% self-declared competence in UI, yet many gave incorrect answers on catheter size and duration. Competence strongly correlated with knowledge of AUS components, regular implant involvement, and prior experience. Most (89.3%) expressed interest in additional training for UI. This study highlights significant gaps in training and knowledge among Brazilian urologists regarding UI in AUS patients. These deficiencies underscore the potential for enhanced education to improve patient outcomes and reduce AUS-associated complications in Brazil and possibly broader internationalcontexts.

Methodological report of a cross-sectional survey of abortion-related knowledge, attitudes and practices amongst health professionals in Britain, strategies adopted and lessons learned: evidence from the SACHA Study

BackgroundMost surveys examining health professionals’ knowledge, attitudes and practices around abortion have used convenience samples and have targeted doctors. Our goal in the SACHA Study, drawing on evidence-based strategies to maximise response rates, was to achieve a representative sample of a wider range of health professionals, working in general practice, maternity services, pharmacies, sexual and reproductive health (SRH) clinics and specialist abortion services in Britain, to explore the knowledge, attitudes and experience of abortion care and views on future models of delivery.MethodsA cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey of midwives, doctors, nurses and pharmacists in England, Scotland and Wales was undertaken between November, 2021 and July, 2022. We used a stratified cluster sampling approach to select a random sample of sites and all eligible staff within those services were asked to respond to the survey. Evidence-based strategies to maximise completion rates were adopted, including postal delivery of the one-page questionnaire with personal letter of invitation and a stamped address envelope for return, inclusion of an unconditional voucher and follow-up.ResultsOverall, 147 of the 314 (46.8%) health service sites randomly selected took part in the survey. Reasons for non-participation included local Research and Development (R&D) Department non-response, lack of resources or insufficient time to support or approve the study, lack of interest in or perceived relevance of the topic and insufficient capacity to take part, exacerbated by work demands during the COVID epidemic. Of the 1370 questionnaires sent to eligible identified participants within these services, 771 were completed and returned (56.3%). At the service level the highest proportion of returns was from SRH clinics (81.0%) and the lowest from general practice (32.4%). In relation to profession, returns were highest amongst midwives (69.6%) and lowest amongst pharmacists (36.5%).ConclusionsObtaining information about health professional knowledge, attitudes and practices is key to guide service development and policy and to identify gaps in training and service provision in abortion. Despite our attempts to gain a representative sample of health professionals, the challenges we experienced limited the representativeness of the sample, despite the use of an evidence-based strategy.

Human resource management in homecare in England: managing people for safe care during crisis

BackgroundHuman resource management (HRM) of healthcare organisations plays an important role in improving the continuity of care, managing staff, and ensuring patient safety. During COVID-19, there were several HR-related issues, creating a significant challenging situation for health and social care institutions. This study explored the HRM issues that are associated with the patient safety in homecare, and how homecare providers have responded to these HR-related challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this is to explore the role of HRM practices in helping care organisations operate efficiently and supporting their workforce to adapt to future disruptive changes and crises.MethodsQualitative strategies include narrative inquiry involving gathering information in the form of storytelling by the research participants. Between February 2021 and December 2021, data were collected through semi-structured interviews of 31 participants, including homecare staff (homecare transition practitioners, homecare social workers, and carers), family members, and service users in England.ResultsThe research identified key HRM challenges during the pandemic, including staff shortages, high turnover, ineffective communication, occupational stress for front-line carers, and lack of training, all adversely affecting the safety of homecare patients. In response, homecare providers employed strategies like opportunistic recruitment, digital technology for training and communication, and flexible work arrangements to mitigate these issues.ConclusionsSeveral implications are proposed, with the over-riding aim of ensuring effective management of HRM practices in responding to address key areas: staffing, performance management, and training. Homecare providers should utilise short-term adaptive recruitment strategies, while also focusing on long-term workforce development and resilience to effectively respond to current and future care needs. Prioritising staff well-being for retention and care quality are crucial. Homecare providers are encouraged to offer flexible work arrangements and digital communication methods, all while being mindful of preventing technostress and digital exhaustion among their staff. They also need to bridge training gaps and employ effective delivery methods to equip healthcare workers with essential skills, thereby enhancing resilience and adaptability in homecare.

A Literature Review of the Educational Gaps and Needs in Migraine Management: An Asian Perspective Within a Global Context.

Migraine is a common neurological disorder that presents considerable challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. These changes are especially relevant in rapidly developing regions such as Asia, with an increasingly productive population and ongoing advancements in healthcare systems and infrastructure. Despite its substantial impact, migraine management remains inadequate, potentially due to deficiencies in medical education. We hypothesized that significant gaps in basic and advanced medical training and continuing professional education contribute to the suboptimal management of migraine in various healthcare settings across Asia. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google databases. The search focused on cross-sectional studies published in English from inception until September 2024 that examined educational needs among medical trainees and clinicians and clinical gaps in migraine management in Asia. These studies were then contextualized within a global perspective. The review identified significant shortcomings in migraine education at all levels of educational training in Asia, which also translated to poor management of migraines in clinical practice. Undergraduate medical curricula in Asia inadequately address headache disorders, while postgraduate training programs provide insufficient guidance in headache management, especially for complex cases. Primary care clinicians exhibited variable levels of understanding and frequently incorrectly diagnosed and managed migraine.Additionally, many Asian countries lack standardized clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) and specialized training programs for headache management. A multidimensional approach is required to tackle the pre-existing educational and clinical practice limitations. The approach should include improving the medical school curriculum, providing focused continuing medical education programs or developing migraine modules for primary care physicians (PCPs), and developing region-specific CPGs. Besides educational initiatives, integrating and coordinating systems of care, where primary and specialist services complement each other, are crucial for improving patient care. Robust education combined with comprehensive referral and linkage protocols ensures continuity of care across healthcare levels. Moreover, collaboration, communication, and cooperation among healthcare providers (HCPs) and organizations are vital to enhancing the quality of life and productivity of migraine patients in the region.A synergistic approach that combines robust collaboration with innovative educational delivery can catalyze the widespread adoption of evidence-based medicine (EBM).

Optimalisasi Peran Guru Sebagai Agen Perubahan dalam Pendidikan dan Masyarakat di Era Digital

This study explores the strategic role of teachers in education and society and the challenges they face in integrating technology in the Industrial Revolution 4.0 era. Using a qualitative approach based on literature studies, this study analyzed four relevant articles. The findings show that teachers have a multifaceted role, including as educators, mentors, motivators, and agents of social change. Teachers are expected to be able to adapt to technological developments to create relevant learning for generation Z, such as through the implementation of the flipped classroom method and project-based learning. However, limited infrastructure and technology training are major challenges. This study emphasizes the importance of continuous training and policy support to support teacher professionalism in meeting the demands of modern education. This study also identifies the need for further research to address gaps in technology training, especially in areas with limited access..

A pan-European survey of robotic training for gastrointestinal surgery: European Robotic Surgery Consensus (ERSC) initiative.

There has been a recent rapid growth in the adoption of robotic systems across Europe. This study aimed to capture the current state of robotic training in gastrointestinal (GI) surgery and to identify potential challenges and barriers to training within Europe. A pan-European survey was designed to account for the opinion of the following GI surgery groups: (i) experts/independent practitioners; (ii) trainees with robotic access; (iii) trainees without robotic access; (iv) robotic industry representatives. The survey explored various aspects, including stakeholder opinions on bedside assisting, console operations, challenges faced and performance assessment. It was distributed through multiple European surgical societies and industry, in addition to social media and snowball sampling, between December 2023 and March 2024. A total of 1360 participants responded, with valid/complete responses from 1045 participants across 38 European countries. Six hundred and ninety-five (68.0%) experts and trainees were not aware of a dedicated robotic training curriculum for trainees, with 13/23 (56.5%) industry representatives not incorporating training for trainees in their programme. Among trainees with access to robotic systems, 94/195 (48.2%) had not performed any robotic cases, citing challenges including a lack of certified robotic trainers and training lists. Both experts and trainees agreed that trainees should start bedside assisting and operating on the console earlier than they currently do. Assessment tools of trainee performance were not being used by 139/479 (29.0%) participants. This pan-European survey highlights the need for a standardised robotic curriculum to address the gap in visceral training, assessment and certification. A greater emphasis may be required on implementing robotic training earlier through simulation training, dual console learning, bedside assisting, key clinical performance indicators, and assessment tools. The findings will guide the development of a pan-European consensus on the essential components of a comprehensive training programme for GI robotic surgery.

Asian adult sleep medicine fellowship training curriculum: one curriculum, many contexts.

To develop a comprehensive Asian adult sleep medicine fellowship training curriculum to address the significant disparities in sleep medicine training across Asia, guided by the principle of "One Curriculum, Many Contexts," providing a standardized yet adaptable framework for sleep medicine education across the diverse healthcare landscapes of Asian countries. The curriculum development process involved a gap analysis, comprehensive literature review, and expert consensus through a modified RAND appropriateness method (RAM)/Delphi survey. The curriculum offers two flexible tracks: a one-year program (Track A) and a two-year program (Track B), accommodating varied educational pathways and healthcare system structures across Asia. Key features of the curriculum include detailed learning outcomes, competency-based educational content, and recommendations for teaching and learning activities. The assessment strategy incorporates summative and formative methods, with standard setting and program evaluation guidelines. The curriculum also provides recommendations for program accreditation, fellow-faculty ratios, and funding considerations. The Asian adult sleep medicine fellowship training curriculum provides a standardized yet adaptable framework for sleep medicine education across diverse Asian healthcare landscapes. By emphasizing flexibility and customization while maintaining high training standards, the curriculum aims to bridge the gap in sleep medicine training across Asia, ultimately improving the quality of sleep healthcare and patient outcomes throughout the region.

Point-of-care ultrasound in palliative medicine residency programs: report of a national survey and local workshop.

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is used in various clinical specialties to improve diagnostic and procedural accuracy and has many potential applications in palliative care. However, it is unclear what is the current state of training and use of POCUS in palliative care in Canada. Our objectives were to understand the current state of training and use of POCUS in Canadian Palliative Medicine subspecialty residency programs and to develop and implement a local training workshop for POCUS in palliative care. We surveyed residency program leaders regarding formal training and clinical applications of POCUS for faculty and residents in their programs. The results from the national survey informed the design of a workshop for POCUS at our institution. Faculty and resident participants completed pre- and post-workshop surveys evaluating their comfort with using and teaching POCUS. Most residency programs provided between one to ten hours of POCUS teaching to residents. Clinical application was generally limited to assessing ascites and performing paracentesis. Lack of POCUS-trained faculty was identified as the most common barrier to more widespread use of POCUS. On a limited budget, we successfully implemented a POCUS training workshop at our institution that improved participant confidence and comfort in using and teaching POCUS. Although POCUS is viewed as a beneficial skill for enhancing patient care and is a competency in palliative medicine residency programs, there are gaps in both training and utilization. A POCUS workshop is an effective and low-cost "first-step" intervention that can be easily replicated in other programs.

Knowledge and skills required for librarians in Digital Humanities: a literature review

This article is a literature review conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) to identify, analyze and synthesize the competencies required of librarians in the Digital Humanities (DH); DH content in Information Science courses and the roles of librarians in DH projects. Competences were identified in all DH activities, particularly technological competences, soft skills, project planning and intellectual property rights. Courses and proposals for DH courses in Information Science were identified, as there are still gaps in training. The roles of librarians were identified at different levels, as suppliers of infrastructure, tools and raw materials, service providers, collaborators and project creators. It is recommended that DH be included both in the formal domain, through its inclusion in Information Science courses, and in the informal domain, through training that allows for lifelong updating.

Addressing the gap in health data management skills: an online self-guided course for researchers and health professionals

BackgroundThe healthcare sector is rapidly evolving with the rise of digital technology and data-driven decision-making. However, traditional medical education has yet to fully integrate training on managing health-related information, resulting in a significant skills gap among medical and research professionals. This gap is pronounced in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where data privacy concerns and inadequate infrastructure hinder efforts to utilise and share health data.AimsTo address this gap, we developed an online, modular course aimed at providing foundational skills on capturing, storing and sharing health data.MethodsThe course was developed using the ADDIE(Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate) instructional design model. A needs assessment workshop involving 25 global health proffesionals identified key training gaps which informed the curriculum’s development. A multidisciplinary team from six institutions developed the modules. The course was piloted in a face-to-face setting with 37 participants and later adapted for online delivery via the Global Health Network platform. We evaluated the course using Level 1 of Kirkpatrick’s model for training evaluation.ResultsSix foundational modules were developed: Introduction to Data Management, Data Quality, Data Repositories, Ethics of Data Sharing, Data Governance, and Costing for Data Management. Between December 2020 and April 2024, 6,384 individuals from 90 countries completed the course. Of these, 32% were from Africa, 15% from Asia, 16% from South/Central America and the Caribbean, and 24% from Europe. Summative evaluations, based on voluntary post-module surveys, demonstrated high relevance to participants’ learning needs (96.6%) and strong intentions to apply the skills gained (88.3%). Key motivators for enrollment included the course’s free access, relevance to professional or academic needs, and trust in the organizations and authors behind the content.ConclusionsThe high enrolment and broad geographical reach demonstrates the potential of online training as a cost-effective tool to equip health practitioners and researchers with data literacy skills. Future evaluations will assess its impact on participants’ knowledge, behavior, and data-sharing and reuse practices.

The Shift to Online Psychotherapy: Adaptation and Implications for Brazilian Clinical Psychologists Amid Covid-19

The Covid-19 pandemic disrupted traditional psychotherapy practices, prompting a rapid transition to online modalities. This qualitative study investigates how Brazilian clinical psychologists adapted to online psychotherapy during and after the pandemic. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five psychologists, each with an average professional experience of 8.9 years. Using the Iramuteq software for lexical analysis, six thematic classes were identified: uncertainties during the transition, emerging possibilities, adaptability movements, pandemic context, new professional perspectives, and academic and professional trajectories. The findings highlight significant challenges, including managing technological tools, maintaining therapeutic relationships, and addressing client concerns in virtual settings. However, the transition also revealed notable advantages, such as reduced operational costs, enhanced flexibility, and expanded access to psychological care. The analysis underscores the critical role of digital competencies, including technical, communicational, and cultural skills, in ensuring effective online therapy. Additionally, the results point to gaps in academic training and professional preparation for telepsychology, emphasizing the need for curriculum reform to include digital literacy and teletherapy-specific strategies. The study concludes that online psychotherapy represents not only a response to crisis but also a sustainable model for expanding access to mental health care. It calls for targeted professional development and ethical guidelines to support psychologists in navigating digital environments effectively. These insights contribute to understanding the evolving dynamics of psychotherapy and provide actionable recommendations for improving digital mental health services in Brazil and beyond.

Analisis Faktor Yang Mempengaruhi Keselamatan Operasional Kapal di Pelabuhan Merak

The study, titled "Analysis of Factors Affecting Safety at Merak Port," aims to identify and analyze key factors influencing operational safety at Merak Port. This port is a strategic route linking Java and Sumatra, serving millions of passengers and vehicles annually. However, high activity levels and operational complexity present significant safety challenges. This research employs a qualitative case study approach, combining interviews, field observations, and document analysis. Quantitative data were also collected via questionnaires distributed to operators, workers, and passengers. Findings reveal that human factors, weather conditions, and infrastructure are critical to safety. Incidents in 2023, such as the KMP Royce 1 fire and a crane accident, underscore the need for enhanced risk management and infrastructure maintenance. The study concludes that gaps in safety training and compliance with safety procedures are key challenges. Additionally, extreme weather and suboptimal heavy equipment conditions increase operational risks. Recommendations include improving safety management practices, enhancing infrastructure maintenance, and providing regular training for workers to strengthen operational safety at Merak Port.

A Survey on Disabilities and Disability Awareness in General Surgery Residents in the United States

IntroductionDisabilities affect a substantial portion of the US population, with mental health conditions being predominant. Despite the acknowledged challenges, there is a lack of data on disability prevalence among general surgery residents. This study aimed to compare the prevalence of disabilities in general surgery residents to the national benchmark, investigate the factors that prevent surgery residents from disclosing their disabilities, and assess the presence of a disability policy in a residency program. MethodsA descriptive cross-sectional cohort study surveyed 198 general surgery residents from 323 programs using a 33-question conditional survey. The survey, distributed via mass email, covered demographics, disability status, disclosure practices, accommodation use, and awareness of disability policies and training. ResultsAmong respondents, 30.3% reported having a disability, higher than the national average. Although 83.9% of respondents reported that their disability has some impact on their ability to work, 62.9% of residents with a disability have not informed their program directors or administration. Moreover, many residents experienced negative outcomes due to their disabilities. Fear of discrimination and lack of transparency, among other factors, were major barriers to disclosure. Only 16.2% received disability training, and 75.3% were unaware of their program's disability policy or if one existed. ConclusionsThis study reveals significant gaps in disability policy and training within general surgery residency programs in the United States. Despite about 1 in 3 surgical residents reporting a disability, disability support seems lacking, impacting the health of residents and the care provided to patients. Furthermore, many residency programs do not comply with requirements and recommendations regarding disability policy from graduate education organizations. Enhancing transparency, providing robust support systems, and integrating disability awareness into training are crucial steps to improve resident experiences and promote inclusivity in surgical training programs.

Shocking shortage: the electrical trade crisis in the Eastern Cape, South Africa

This study examines the shortage of professional electricians in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, exploring the root causes, consequences, and potential solutions. Using an interpretivist paradigm and inductive approach, qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with local electricians were analysed through thematic analysis. Findings indicate that inadequate training opportunities and low industry awareness are major contributors to this shortage, leading to an increased presence of unqualified electricians. The analysis identified three primary themes: causes, including insufficient training and awareness; consequences, such as diminished industry standards and rising unqualified practitioners; and potential solutions centred on educational reform and expanded vocational programs. While this study is limited to the Eastern Cape, it provides valuable insights that may inform similar regions, offering actionable recommendations for industry stakeholders. By addressing these training and awareness gaps, stakeholders can help reduce the shortage, enhance workforce skills, and improve overall industry standards. The research underscores the critical need for educational initiatives and awareness campaigns to counteract skilled labour shortages, emphasising that targeted strategies could stimulate sustainable workforce development. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of labour market dynamics in the construction sector, with particular relevance for the sustainable growth of skilled trades.

An Evaluation of Factors Influencing Nurses’ Preparedness and Response to COVID-19 with Focus on Saudi Arabia: Literature Review

This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the preparedness and response of nurses towards the COVID-19 pandemic across selected Arabic countries, namely the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Palestine, Yemen, and Saudi Arabia. The research elucidates the understanding, preparedness, and strategies adopted by healthcare workers in these countries, identifying significant gaps in resources, training, and psychological support. Data were derived from various cross-sectional studies and validated online questionnaires, allowing for a broad comparison of factors affecting preparedness and response across different healthcare systems. The findings demonstrate varying levels of understanding and preparedness among healthcare workers, with gaps in resources and mental health support being prevalent issues. The study also highlights the role of knowledge delivery and sufficient personal protective equipment in bolstering effective response efforts. Based on the findings, the study recommends continuous education and training initiatives for nurses, improving information dissemination channels, ensuring equitable resource allocation, enhancing psychological support, implementing comprehensive emergency preparedness plans, increasing investment in healthcare infrastructure, and promoting further research. This research underscores the necessity for swift, collaborative global action, enhanced strategies, and interventions to ensure the well-being of nurses and healthcare professionals during such crises. It provides insight into current response efforts, facilitates understanding of their effectiveness, and fosters informed decision-making for future health emergencies. The recommendations offered are integral to enhancing the resilience and readiness of healthcare systems for future health crises.

Artificial intelligence in community pharmacy practice: Pharmacists' perceptions, willingness to utilize, and barriers to implementation

BackgroundArtificial intelligence (AI) has a significant potential to impact pharmacy practices worldwide. This study investigates pharmacists' perceptions of AI's role in pharmacy practices, their willingness to adopt it, and perceived barriers to its implementation at community pharmacies in Ethiopia. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among community pharmacists in Ethiopia. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, and post-hoc analyses were used to compare pharmacists' perception and willingness scores. A linear regression analysis examined the association of independent variables with pharmacists' perception of AI and willingness to utilize AI. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. ResultsOf 241 pharmacists approached, 225 (93.3 %) completed the survey. Overall, about two-thirds (67.1 % and 66.2 %) of community pharmacists had a high level of perception and willingness to use AI applications in pharmacy, respectively. Pharmacists with bachelor's degrees and above (β = 2.76: 95 % CI: 0.09, 5.01 vs. β = 1.79: 95 % CI: 0.05, 4.21), those who utilized scientific drug information sources (β = 2.45, 95 %: 0.17, 4.45 vs. β = 1.76, 95 % CI: 0.91, 3.89), pharmacists who had a previous exposure of AI (β = 1.02, 95 %: 0.03, 3.24 vs. β =1.13, 95 % CI: 0.07, 2.93), and those who with higher perceived AI knowledge (β =1.09, 95 % CI: 0.02, 2.46 vs. β = 1.14, 95 %CI: 0.17, 3.11) had significantly higher perception of AI and willingness to utilize it, respectively compared to their counterparts. Lack of internet availability (89.3 %), lack of AI-related software/hardware (88.2 %), and limited training (80.9 %) were the most frequently reported barriers by pharmacists to AI adoption. Over 90 % of pharmacists agreed on the importance of internet availability (93.3 %), policies/frameworks (91.6 %), and research/learning from others (89.3 %) for successful AI integration. ConclusionDespite positive perceptions and willingness from pharmacists, AI implementation in community pharmacies could be hindered by resource limitations, training gaps, skill constraints, and infrastructure issues. To facilitate adoption, enhancing knowledge and skills, and developing policies/frameworks are crucial.

Contemporary Lusheng as an Educational Resource in Teaching Chinese Folk Music

The contemporary Lusheng, a reed instrument from the Miao ethnic group in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, has significantly transformed since the 1970s to expand its musical capabilities and adaptability in modern educational settings. This study explores the role of the contemporary Lusheng as an educational resource in teaching Chinese folk music. Conducted in Nanning City and Rongshui Miao Autonomous County, the research involves ethnographic fieldwork, interviews with three key informants, performers, educators, and instrument makers, and observations of educational practices. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, focusing on how contemporary Lusheng is integrated into music education and its impact on cultural preservation and student engagement. The findings reveal that the contemporary Lusheng, with its expanded pitch range and improved design, is an effective tool for teaching Chinese folk music's technical and cultural aspects. It enhances student engagement and fosters a deeper appreciation for traditional music. However, challenges remain in integrating the instrument into urban education settings and addressing gaps in teacher training. The study suggests further developing specialized teacher training programs and exploring digital media to promote Lusheng in diverse educational contexts.

Initial Training of Primary Education Teachers in Nutrition: Review of Contents of Spanish University Curricula Based on ESD

In formal education, teachers play a fundamental role in teaching healthy nutritional habits, which are crucial for promoting balanced diets throughout life. This research aims to analyze the nutritional training of teachers by reviewing the presence of nutritional education content in their university education. The methodology employed is a descriptive documentary analysis incorporating both qualitative and quantitative components, utilizing a document analysis of the teaching guides (280 documents) from primary education degrees offered in Spain (67 universities). The results reveal significant deficiencies in the nutritional content of the teaching guides, highlighting gaps in the initial training of teachers. Among the inadequately addressed topics are food sovereignty, food security, diseases related to poor nutrition, guidelines for healthy eating, and types of diets that promote good health and respect the socioeconomic environment. Therefore, to meet some of the challenges proposed by the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, it would be advisable to provide primary education degree students at Spanish universities with greater knowledge of nutrition-related aspects.

Preparation of pre-service special education teachers on conducting functional behavioral assessments: A pilot study

Before implementing individualized interventions for students exhibiting challenging behaviors, special education teachers must be equipped to assess behavioral functions. However, many school personnel have been found to be unprepared to conduct evidence-based functional behavioral assessments (FBA). This situation highlights a potential gap in pre-service training. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the preparation of Illinois pre-service special education teachers for conducting FBAs. Public data were collected on 33 traditional special education licensure programs and their affiliated institutes of higher education. Nine of the 33 participated in the study, with innovation configurations used to analyze special education program course syllabi and questionnaires completed by program faculty. The authors found variability among the sample of programs regarding content delivery and faculty perceptions of pre-service teachers’ skills and knowledge. The study’s results leave many considerations for district leaders as they hire and mentor special education teachers.

Building competency to deal with environmental health challenges: experiences and a proposal.

The global landscape of professional training in environmental health, encompassing ecological public health or environmental public health, lacks consistent global implementation for training programs for public health practitioners, clinical professionals, and individuals across various disciplines, as well as standardized curricula for undergraduates. This training gap is related to the overall lack of capacity in addressing the population impacts of the triple challenge of pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change, impeding the worldwide transition to and development of ecological sustainability. This paper reviews existing approaches and their potential to address implementation challenges within the necessarily tight timescale. Spreading of best practice appears feasible even without substantial additional resources, through the reorientation of current practices via comprehensive multi-disciplinary training programs. By adopting international best practices of training in environmental health, the focus in training and education can shift from future decision-makers to enhancing the competencies of current professionals and their institutions.