"Oh, this is actually okay": Understanding how one state child welfare training system adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic. (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schwab-Reese, Laura M.; Drury, Ida; Allan, Heather; Matz, Kasey
• Is Part Of: Child abuse & neglect. Volume 110(2020)Part 2
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: Training -- Pandemic -- COVID-19 -- Child protection -- Child welfare; Child abuse -- Periodicals; 362.76
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2020.104697
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0145-2134

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Training for new and existing child protection system (CPS) caseworkers is critical to developing and maintaining a competent workforce that effectively works towards safety, permanency, and wellbeing outcomes for children in the system. The COVID-19 pandemic required a shift to virtual training to continue training CPS professionals safely. Objective: The purpose of our project was to determine if there were differences in learning outcomes between learners who completed training in the usual delivery methods (Pre-COVID) and the fully virtual delivery methods (Post-COVID). We also sought to understand any factors that facilitated or impeded successful virtual training during the pandemic. Participants and setting: Caseworkers-in-training completed learning and satisfaction assessments through standard continuing quality improvement efforts. Training facilitators, course developers, and leadership completed qualitative interviews. Methods: We assessed quantitative differences in one US state in learner knowledge, satisfaction, and behaviors before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and conducted a qualitative thematic analysis of interviews with training system employees. Results: Overall, there were limited differences in learner outcomes before and after the transition to virtual training delivery. Across the employee interviews, three main themes emerged: organizational culture facilitated the transition, external constraints caused challenges during the transition, and there were opportunities to evolve training practices positively. Conclusions: The shift to a virtual learning environment had little impact on learner knowledge or satisfaction. Employee perspectives indicated that the pre-COVID investment in organizational culture has substantial dividends for performance during the crisis.