Characteristics Of Training Programs Research Articles

Family Engagement Practices in a Public Pre-Kindergarten Program: Variation by Program, Classroom, and Staff Characteristics

ABSTRACT Family engagement is considered a key component of preschool program quality, and early childhood education teachers and programs are increasingly expected to engage families in their programs. However, there is limited knowledge on what strategies preschool programs use to engage families and how these family engagement practices vary across programs. This study uses survey data collected from public pre-kindergarten program administrators and teachers in a mid-sized, urban school district to describe various types of family engagement practices and to examine associations between family engagement practices and pre-K program, classroom, and staff characteristics. We also conduct thematic analysis of open-ended survey responses to triangulate and complement our quantitative findings and to provide insight into teachers’ and administrators’ perceived barriers and facilitators of family engagement. We find that teachers frequently communicated with parents and provided involvement opportunities. Programs also provided various referrals and family support services. Family engagement practices were associated with staff’s professional training and classroom and program characteristics. Our findings highlight the importance of considering program structure, such as half- versus full-day program, and the importance of teachers’ knowledge and training in family engagement for shaping preschool programs’ family engagement practices.

Evaluation of Perceived Importance of Mohs Fellowship Training Program Characteristics by American College of Mohs Surgery Members.

Evaluation of Perceived Importance of Mohs Fellowship Training Program Characteristics by American College of Mohs Surgery Members.

Supporting best practice in the management of chronic diseases in primary health care settings: a scoping review of training programs for Indigenous Health Workers and Practitioners.

Background To improve diabetes management in primary health care for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples population, training programs that are culturally and contextually relevant to the local context are required. Using a scoping review methodology, the aim of this review was to describe the characteristics of chronic disease management training programs for Aboriginal Health Workers and Practitioners, their effectiveness on knowledge and skills, and client-related outcomes, and the enablers, barriers to delivery and participation. Methods Following protocol parameters, a systematic search was conducted in relevant databases and grey literature. Two independent reviewers screened the title and abstract of each paper to determine if the study met the inclusion criteria. Results Of the 23 included studies, most were developed with stakeholders, profession facilitated and delivered by cultural facilitators. All training programs included content knowledge, two included a professional support network, four provided on-the-job support and six had follow-up support post-training. Modes of delivery ranged from didactic, storytelling and hands-on learning. Two studies reported significant improvement in participants' knowledge and confidence; one reported improvement in knowledge (12.7% increase pre-post training), and an increase in confidence in both clinical and non-clinical skills. Enablers (relevance, modes of learning, power of networking, improved knowledge, confidence and clinical practice) and barriers (adult learning capabilities, competing work-family commitments) were reported. Few studies reported on knowledge transfer into clinical practice and client-related outcomes. Conclusions Multifaceted training programs for Aboriginal health workers are well received and may improve workforce capability.

Main characteristics of preventive postural hygiene training programs in the educational field

Objective: To determine the state of the art regarding preventive training programs on postural hygiene and back health in an educational context. Introduction: The prevalence of non-specific back pain in population reaches alarming figures and its causes are largely preventable. Adequate training in postural education is necessary along students' academic career. Method: Retrospective descriptive study, using the PRISMA method. Results: 61 original articles published from 2017 to 2021 have been analysed. Discussion: Postural education programs have demonstrated their effectiveness and have provided benefits for the participating students.

1998. The State of Training in Infection Prevention and Control and Healthcare Epidemiology: A National Survey of Infectious Disease Fellowship Program Directors

Abstract Background Infectious disease (ID) clinicians are often identified to lead infection prevention and control (IPC)/healthcare epidemiology (HE) programs, however, there is no standardized training in fellowship for this role. The most recent survey of ID fellows in 2001 found that only 51% of graduates reported adequate training in IPC/HE. Despite this, half of respondents had IPC/HE responsibilities and received compensation from those activities. We conducted a survey of Program Directors (PD) of United States ID fellowship programs to assess current IPC/HE training. Methods An electronic survey was distributed in March and April 2023 to all ID fellowship PD identified by the Infectious Disease Society of America using Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap). Survey questions covered training program characteristics, current required and optional IPC/HE training components, barriers to IPC/HE training, interest among fellows in IPC/HE training, and support for formalization of IPC/HE training. Results Of 166 programs, 54 (32.5%) completed the survey, representing programs in 25 states (Figure 1) and size range from 1-10 fellowship positions (mean 4). The majority (49/54, 90.7%) offered didactics in IPC/HE (mean 4.4 hours, range 1-10), of which 45/49 (94%) and 4/49 (6%) were required and elective, respectively. 52/54 (96.3%) of programs reported a formalized curriculum in IPC/HE training for all fellows and 18/54 (33.3%) of the responding programs offered a specialized track in IPC/HE. Reported training components varied (Table 1). A minority of PDs 11/55 (20%) reported considering expanding their IPC/HE training, however, 23/54 (42.6%) reported barriers (Table 2). There was widespread PD support for a formal IPC/HE certification program through a professional society (52/54, 96.3%).Figure 1:Geographic distribution of survey respondents divided by FEMA regions (1-10) of the United States and Territories (N= 54). Conclusion ID fellowship programs with dedicated IPC/HE training remain limited and the majority of training in IPC/HE is restricted to a small number of hours of didactics. Among respondents, many barriers to increasing IPC/HE training were identified. Respondents supported creation of a formal IPC/HE training program through a professional society. Disclosures Molly L. Paras, MD, Angiodynamics: Honoraria|Angiodynamics: Honoraria

Examining Oral Communication Skills in Communication Training Programs for STEM Professionals: A Systematic Quantitative Literature Review

This study conducted a systematic quantitative literature review to examine the characteristics of communication training programs for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) professionals and their overall impacts related to improving participants’ oral communication skills. Sixteen studies were identified and included in the analysis. Results demonstrate an overall positive effect of communication training programs on the oral communication skills of STEM professionals and highlight the need for integrating theoretical frameworks, using multiple methodological approaches, and incorporating validated measures into the evaluation of training programs. These findings provide meaningful insights for future research and practice in the training and development subfield of STEM communication.

Characteristics of transformational leadership development programs: A scoping review

The effectiveness of transformational leadership (TFL) on various outcomes is well known. Accordingly, researchers have developed training programs to enhance TFL behaviours of leaders. Yet, no reviews summarizing the characteristics of TFL training programs exist. The purpose of this review was to examine the characteristics, reporting, and application of TFL-informed programs. A search of six databases yielded 4032 articles, 31 of which met the inclusion criteria. Program characteristics were analyzed using the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist tool, while outcomes were analyzed according to the Kirkpatrick model of evaluation. The most common context for TFL program implementation was healthcare (n = 9). Programs were tailored and often delivered using group workshops and individual feedback. Studies reported variation in the dose of programs, rarely evaluated outcomes multiple times post-baseline, and typically employed Level 3a (subjective ratings of behaviour) evaluation measures. Reporting on program location, modifications, and fidelity was poor. Varying conceptualizations of TFL in different contexts lead to disparities in programs and protocols. Evaluation specialists should consider using tools like the TIDiER checklist to ensure that program characteristics are reported appropriately. Program planners should develop common approaches for planning and evaluating TFL programs to improve transparency and replicability of programs.

Effects of Combined Training Programs in Individuals with Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review.

Fibromyalgia is a rheumatic disease characterised by chronic widespread muscular pain and its treatment is carried out by pharmacological interventions. Physical exercise and a healthy lifestyle act as an important mechanism in reducing the symptoms of the disease. The aims of this study were to analyse and systematise the characteristics of combined training programs (i.e., type and duration of interventions, weekly frequency, duration and structure of training sessions and prescribed intensities) and to analyse their effects on people diagnosed with fibromyalgia. A systematic literature search was performed using the PRISMA method and then randomised controlled trial articles that met the eligibility criteria were selected. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale was used to assess the quality and risk of the studies. A total of 230 articles were selected, and in the end, 13 articles met the defined criteria. The results showed different exercise interventions such as: combined training, high-intensity interval training, Tai Chi, aerobic exercise, body balance and strength training. In general, the different interventions were beneficial for decreasing physical symptoms and improving physical fitness and functional capacity. In conclusion, a minimum duration of 14 weeks is recommended for better benefits. Moreover, combined training programs were the most effective for this population, in order to reduce the symptoms of the disease with a duration between 60 and 90 min, three times a week with a light to moderate intensity.

Global Resilience in Plastic Surgery Study (GRIPS): Resilience is Associated with Lower Burnout Rates.

A survey was sent via email to the members of plastic surgery societies (ICOPLAST) and the trainees from (ASPS) Resident Council from November 2021 through January 2022. The data included: demographics, training program characteristics, physician wellness resources, and single item Maslach-Burnout Inventory and Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale questionnaire. One-hundred seventy-five plastic surgery trainees responded to the survey. Of these, 119 (68%) trainees from 24 countries completed the full survey. Most respondents 110 (92%) had heard of physician burnout, and almost half of respondents (45%) had burnout. The average Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale score varied significantly amongst trainees self-reporting burnout and those who did not (28.6 versus 31.3, P = 0.008). Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that increased work hours per week were associated with an increased risk of burnout (OR = 1.03, P = 0.04). Higher resilience score (OR = 0.92; P = 0.04) and access to wellness programs (OR = 0.60, P = 0.0004) were associated with lower risk of burnout. Burnout is prevalent across plastic surgery trainees from diverse countries. Increased work hours were associated with burnout, whereas access to wellness programs and higher resilience scores were "protective." Our data suggest that efforts to build resilience may mitigate burnout in plastic surgery trainees.

Assessment and Management of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Pediatric Resident Perspectives on Training and Practice.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common presenting concern in primary care. This study examined the relationship between pediatric residency training program characteristics and residents' ADHD knowledge, attitudes, and comfort in providing ADHD services. Given the familiarity that pediatric chief residents have with the training and experiences within their residency programs, a 30-item survey was mailed to pediatric chief residents. A total of 100 residents returned their surveys (response rate 49.5%) and were included in the descriptive quantitative and thematic qualitative analyses. The majority of participants rated their ADHD knowledge as at least average. However, approximately half of the participants were comfortable with screening, and less than half were comfortable with managing stimulant medication or behavioral treatments. Participants emphasized the importance of interprofessional collaboration, clinical experiences, and integrated ADHD education throughout training. These results emphasize the importance of improved training in screening, diagnosing, and managing ADHD to increase resident comfort regarding these practices.

Effects of Employment Training Program on the well-being of the disabled persons-Evidence from China

Increasing the employment opportunities and income for the disabled persons are both important to safeguard the economic and social rights of this vulnerable groups, and to build an inclusive society. The goals are challenging to achieve because of: 1) the mismatch between economic structure and the education and training system for the disabled persons; 2) incoherent designing and ineffective implementation of various welfare programs for the disabled persons (赖德胜等 2008); 3) discriminatory attitude and practices by employers; 5) ineffective design and delivery of employment training programs (England 2003; Kulkami and Kote 2013).
 Investigating the effects of government employment training programs enables us to identify the factors that contribute to the increase of the disabled persons’ income, and to provide evidence for policymakers to improve the training programs in order to realize the aforementioned goals.
 The study is based on a large size sample questionnaire survey conducted in June-October 2018. The questionnaire is disseminated through an online website to the disabled persons’ mobile app Wechat. The respondents are located in 31 provincial administrative areas, and received 11296 responses. The questionnaire collects information about the characteristics of employment training programs delivered by the agencies, the respondents’ employment training experiences and training needs, their attitude towards the content, facilities and effects of the programs, the status of their employment, and their personal characteristics such as age, gender, education, income level, household registration status, and types and degree of disability. We also collect statistics that reflect the differences in terms of economic development and public service expenditure across provinces and regions. We use the linear regression model to test the effects of all these factors on the capability of the respondents to use the skills learned from the training programs to increase their income. The study concludes that the respondents are more likely to increase their income through training programs when the training content fits their jobs more, when they aim to develop interests and hobbies through training, and when they are more masterful of the training content. Different from many studies on the effect of performance management on job training performance, the findings suggest that responsive design and effective performance management of the training programs matter for positive program performance (Gerrish 2016). The study will also link with and contribute to the literature on social equity and employment policy for disabled persons that are rarely researched in public administration (e.g. Lindsay, Adams, McDougall and Sanford 2012; Gooden 2015).

Mental health training programs for community pharmacists, pharmacy staff and students: A systematic review.

Primary care is often the first point of contact for people living with mental disorders. Community pharmacists, pharmacy staff and students are increasingly being trained to deliver mental health care. However, there is still a gap in the literature exploring the characteristics of all available mental health training programs and their components and their influence on pharmacists, pharmacy staff and students' outcomes. To summarize the evidence evaluating mental health training programs completed by community pharmacists, pharmacy staff and students. More specifically, to explore the components of mental health training programs and identify those that facilitate significant improvements in outcomes. A systematic review was conducted following the Cochrane handbook and reported according to PRISMA guidelines. A search for published literature was conducted in three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) in July 2021. Eligible studies were included if they described and evaluated the impact of mental health training programs delivered to community pharmacists, pharmacy staff and pharmacy students regardless of design or comparator. The methodological quality of included studies was appraised using both the NIH quality assessment, to evaluate studies with an uncontrolled pre-post design, and the Cochrane EPOC risk of bias assessment, to evaluate studies with a controlled (randomized and non-randomized) study design. Thirty-three studies were included. Most of the identified mental health training programs contained knowledge-based components and active learning activities. Changes in participants' attitudes, stigma, knowledge, confidence and skills were frequently assessed. An extensive range of self-assessment and observational instruments used to evaluate the impact of the training programs were identified. Positive improvements in participants' attitudes, knowledge and stigma were frequently identified following participation in training programs. This systematic review highlights the importance of mental health training programs in increasing pharmacists', pharmacy staff and pharmacy students' skills and confidence to deliver mental health care in community pharmacy. Future research should build upon this basis and further focus on finding the most efficient measures to evaluate these training programs and assess their long-term effectiveness, allowing comparison between programs.

Динаміка показників обхватних розмірів тіла спортсменів залежно від особливостей тренувальних програм бодібілдерів

The purpose of the study was to study the features of the influence of various training programs on increasing the volume of the body size of bodybuilders. Materials and methods. Theoretical analysis of scientific and methodological literature was used in the work. To assess the effectiveness of the impact of training loads on the muscular system of athletes, depending on the training programs used, we studied anthropometric indicators of the body. In the process of using this research method, the primary parameters of body length (cm), body weight (kg), girth dimensions (cm) and the dynamics of their changes during all stages of the study with a control interval of 1 mesocycle were recorded. Mathematical processing of research results was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 20 software. Results and discussion. The results of research indicate that the values of training loads of bodybuilders and the nature of their changes in the same level of training of athletes and the structure of training depend on the characteristics of the selected means of training (training programs). The analysis of the obtained results shows that in the conditions of application of the second variant of the training program the indicators of the working mass of the projectile of athletes change more significantly during the whole period of research. The results reaffirm our hypothesis that the predominant use of the method of "premature fatigue" in the training process of bodybuilders at the stage of specialized basic training contributes to a more significant increase in control compared to changes in body size that can be achieved during the use of the generally accepted training program in bodybuilding. At the same time, the use of the method of "premature fatigue" in the process of optimizing the training work of bodybuilders contributes to a significant reduction in injuries, especially at this stage of training. Conclusion. Thus, the results of the study indicate that the values of training load and the nature of their changes in the mesocycles of basic training, in conditions of approximately the same level of training and the same structure of training, depend on the characteristics of training programs, i.e. a certain sequence of exercises character in training sessions. During the research it was found that the use of the second version of the program in the process of training with alternating use of basic and formative exercises for no more than two microcycles of training allows to get the most positive overall growth in body muscle size (10.0% p. <0.05)

The pediatric surgery match from the applicant perspective

BackgroundPrevious studies have examined characteristics critical to make a successful applicant in the pediatric surgery match. No previous study has focused on what applicants consider important as they interview pediatric surgery training programs. Study DesignSuccessfully matched applicants to our training program from 2018 to 2020 were identified and a 49-question survey sent electronically. In addition to a descriptive analysis of responses, comparisons between those who matched into one of their top three programs and those who matched outside of their top three programs were made. A Likert scale was used and data are reported as mean (95% confidence intervals). ResultsOne hundred and thirty individuals were surveyed. Sixty-three (48%) responded. The most important characteristics identified were total index case volume 1.94 (1.87, 2.00), interactions with faculty on the interview day 1.84 (1.74, 1.94), neonatal case volume 1.75 (1.61, 1.88) and degree of autonomy 1.63 (1.50, 1.77). Respondents also placed a high importance on the in-person interview experience 1.63 (1.49, 1.77). The least important training program characteristics were quantity of vacation time -0.24 (-0.52, 0.05), opportunity to participate in medical mission trips -0.25 (-0.54, 0.06), paid accommodation at the interview -0.29 (-0.57, 0.00), and access to a simulation laboratory -0.51 (-0.78, -0.24). ConclusionClinical volume, neonatal volume, faulty interactions and the experience on the interview day are the most important characteristics to applicants. There were few, if any, characteristics applicants felt were truly unimportant as they weighed their rank lists. Applicants also placed a high level of importance on an in-person interview Level of EvidenceLevel IV

Psychiatry training for medical students: A global perspective and implications for India's competency-based medical education curriculum.

Competency-based medical education curriculum (CBME) has received traction worldwide. However, its adoption and implementation have significantly varied across the globe. The National Medical Commission, India (2019) has adopted CBME to improve the quality and content of training of medical students. However, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has spawned several challenges implementing the CBME. Therefore, there is a need to reflect on using novel teaching and assessment methods to enrich medical and psychiatric training. In this paper, we aimed to study global trends and characteristics of competency-based psychiatry training programs and how these experiences can be utilized to overcome challenges and facilitate the implementation of CBME in Psychiatry in the Indian context. A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The findings are presented narratively. Psychiatry training for medical students greatly vary across the globe. High-income countries mainly have implemented CBME and have incorporated psychiatry training during the foundation/pre-clerkship period itself. There is more reliance on skill development and flexible and learning-based training vs. time-based training. Various enrichment activities have been incorporated into the medical curriculum to promote and strengthen psychiatry training for medical students, particularly in developed nations, which have yielded positive results. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected the medical student’s training, it has reiterated the significance of skill-based education and opened novel avenues for implementing the CBME.Medical educationists need to adapt themselves to provide CBME to the students. Making structural, curricular changes, orienting teachers, and students about the CBME, mentoring teachers, adopting novel training and assessment methods, utilizing enrichment activities, collaborating with educational institutions and technology providers, periodically evaluating the implementation of the CBME, and making appropriate course corrections are essential. In addition, there is a need to address structural barriers, such as lack of workforce, for better realization of the CBME objectives.eriodically evaluating the implementation of the CBME, and making appropriate course corrections are essential. Additionally, there is a need to address structural barriers, such as lack of workforce, for better realization of the CBME objectives.

Progressive Resistance Training Program Characteristics in Rehabilitation Programs Following Hip Fracture: A Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression.

Introduction: Older adults often experience incomplete recovery after a hip fracture. Rehabilitation programs with progressive resistance training are associated with improved functional recovery. This systematic review and meta-analysis with meta-regression a) evaluated resistance training characteristics reported in hip fracture rehabilitation programs, b) performed meta-analysis of resistance training impact on strength (primary outcome), gait and physical activity (secondary outcomes), and c) explored resistance training program characteristics associated with improved outcomes using meta-regression. Materials and Methods: Medline, EMBASE, CINAHLPLUS, and Web of Science Core Collection databases were searched (January2000–February2021). Randomized controlled trials including progressive resistance training rehabilitation programs after hip fracture surgery in adults ≥50 years old were included. Meta-analyses and exploratory meta-regression were performed. Results: Meta-analysis showed significant increases in strength (10 trials-728 participants; Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) [95%CI]; .40 [.02, .78]) immediately following program completion in intervention relative to control participants. Meta-analysis on 5 trials (n = 384) with extended follow up found no significant group differences (SMD = .47 [-.28, 1.23]) in strength. Center-based relative to home-based programs were associated with significantly greater improvements in strength (P < .05) as were programs where resistance training intensity was prescribed using one-repetition maximum relative to other exercise prescription methods (P < .05). In gait meta-analysis (n = 10 trials-704 participants), gait speed in intervention participants immediately after the program was significantly higher than control (SMD = .42 [.08, .76]) but this finding was not maintained in extended follow-up (n = 5 trials-240 participants; SMD = .6 [-.26, .38]). Higher resistance training intensity was associated with significant improvements in gait speed (P < .05). No meta-analysis was performed for the 3 heterogeneous studies reporting physical activity. Discussion: Progressive resistance training improved muscle strength and gait speed after hip fracture surgery in adults ≥50years old immediately after the program ended, but the longer-term impact may be more limited. Conclusions: Higher resistance training intensity and center-based programs may be associated with more improvement, but require further research.

Availability and Characteristics of Humanitarian Health Education and Training Programs: A Web-Based Review.

Education and training programs are critical to achieve personnel capacity building and professionalization in the rapidly growing humanitarian health sector. Thus, this study aimed to describe the status of humanitarian health education and training programs world-wide. A web-based analysis was conducted to identify the available humanitarian health programs. The following characteristics of the training programs were described: geographical location, target audience, prerequisite, qualification, curriculum, content, length, modality of delivery, teaching and assessment methods, and tuition fee. The search identified a total number of 142 training programs, most of them available in few countries of the global North. Only seven percent of the identified programs qualified for a master's degree in humanitarian health. Public health was the most identified content (47.2%). Approximately one-half of the training programs (50.7%) were delivered face-to-face. Theoretical knowledge was the most common method used for teaching and assessment. The duration of the training and tuition fees were different for different programs and qualifications, while target audience, prerequisite, and curriculum design were often vaguely described or missing. The study shows a global inequality in access to humanitarian health training programs due to financial and geographical constraints. The study also reveals gaps in program contents, as well as teaching and assessment methods, all issues that could be addressed by developing cost-effective e-learning and online simulation programs. Lastly, the data from this study provide a learning tool that can be used by humanitarian health educators and training centers to further define and standardize the requirements and competencies of humanitarian health professionals.

Is Beauty in the Eye of the Beholder? Differences in Residency Training Program Preferences Among Women and Minorities

Training programs are now more than ever seeking ways to promote recruitment and retention of a diverse resident workforce. The goal of this study was to examine how gender and ethnic identities affect applicant attraction to surgery training programs. Applicants to general surgery residency in 2018 to 2019 completed a 31-item assessment measuring preferences for training program characteristics and attributes. Differences in preferences across candidate gender and ethnicity were investigated. Factor analyses and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to explore these differences. 1491 unique applicants to 7 residency programs completed the assessment, representing 67% of all applicants to general surgery during the 2018 to 2019 season. Women preferred training programs that had high levels of social support (p < 0.001), were less traditional (p < 0.001), and with less turbulence (p < 0.05). Non-white candidates reported greater preference for programs with higher levels of established academics (p < 0.001), clinical experiences (p < 0.001), social support (p < 0.05), traditionalism (p < 0.001), flexibility (p < 0.001), and innovation (p < 0.001). Organizational efforts to attract and retain a diverse workforce may benefit from considering the aspects of work that align with female and underrepresented minority preferences.

General characteristics of training programs at different individual and motivational levels of the swimming training system for students of higher education institutions

Within the increasing of practical significance and efficiency of physical education, it is necessary to develop certain methodic thesis and programs of swimming training for students of higher education institutions and to carry out these experimental checks. Purpose: to provide a general description of training programs at different individual and motivational levels of the swimming training system for students of higher education institutions. Methods: theoretical analysis and generalization (it was clarified the degree of disclosure research issues in the scientific and methodological literature), study of documentary materials (it was founded requirements to the structure and content of student swimming training), system analysis (it was detected signs and characteristics of swimming system for students of higher education institutions). Results. Within the methodical part of the swimming training system, we have identified the possibility of using in the natural environment the educational process of physical education for students of four interconnected by type of sequential combination of training programs. This programs cover different levels of individual and motivational orientation of swimming lessons for students of higher education institutions and, accordingly, swimming preparedness. Considering, that the means and methods of swimming are widely known and thoroughly disclosed in the special literature, our attention we turned to setting tasks for individual classes of different, consistently combined programs at the individual and motivational levels of swimming training system students of higher education institutions. Conclusions. Within the implementation of the methodical component of the swimming training system for students of the higher education institutions, it have been identified four individual and motivational levels of classes. For each of these levels it was carried out a selection of goals, tasks, means and methods of training. For students at the first level, the characteristic difference is the presence of a significant fear of being in the water and the lack of ability to swim. For students at the second level - a low level of fear of being in the water and lack of ability to swim. For students at the third level - the presence of skills to stay afloat and swim in any way (original methods without the use of swimming techniques or a separate style of swimming). For students at the fourth level - the possession of swimming skills and the desire to engage and improve techniques in the future.

Palliative Medicine Specialization in Latin America: A Comparative Analysis

BackgroundFormal recognition of palliative medicine as a specialty has been one of the main drivers in the development of palliative care. AimTo provide a comparative, comprehensive overview on the status of palliative medicine as medical specialty across Latin America. MethodsWe conducted a comparative study of 19 Latin American countries. Key informants and persons in charge of the specialization training programs were identified and interviewed. We collected data on general recognition as specialty (title, process of certification) and on training program characteristics (title, start year, requirements, training length, and type full time or part time). ResultsEight of 19 countries (42%) Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay and Venezuela reported palliative medicine as medical specialty. Thirty-five (sub)specialization training programs in palliative medicine were identified in the region (eight as a specialty and 27 as a subspecialty), the majority in Colombia (43.5%) and Brazil (33.7%). A total of 20% of the programs have yet to graduate their first cohort. Length of clinical training as specialty varied from two to four years, and from 520 hours to three years for a subspecialty. ConclusionDespite long-standing efforts to improve quality of care, and significant achievements to date, most Latin American countries have yet to develop palliative medicine as medical specialty. Specialty and sub-specialty training programs remain scarce in relation to regional needs, and the programs that do exist vary widely in duration, structure, and content.