Enhancing Access to Quality Online Training to Strengthen Public Health Preparedness and Response. Issue 6 (November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wood, Suzanne J.; Rogers, Megan H.; Frost, Madeline C.; Revere, Debra; Rose, Barbara A.; D'Ambrosio, Luann
• Is Part Of: Journal of public health management and practice. Volume 25:Issue 6(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-11
• Subjects: health education -- public health practice -- public health workers; Public health administration -- United States -- Periodicals; 253.6
• DOI: 10.1097/PHH.0000000000000811
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1078-4659

Abstract

Abstract : Objectives: To improve access to quality online training materials developed from 2010 to 2015 by 14 Preparedness and Emergency Response Learning Centers (PERLCs) by creating quality standards and enhancing searchability through a new Web-based public health training catalog. Methods: The PERLC-developed training materials (n = 530) were evaluated for their capability to support development of preparedness competencies as established by 2 evidence-based competency frameworks. Inclusion/exclusion criteria and evaluation guidelines regarding training quality (design, technology, and instructional components) were systematically applied to PERLC products to create a training catalog. Twenty emergency preparedness professionals pilot tested content and provided feedback to improve catalog design and function. Results: Seventy-eight percent of PERLC resources (n = 413) met our quality standards for inclusion in the catalog's searchable database: 358 self-paced courses, 55 informational briefs, and other materials. Twenty-one training bundles were curated. Discussion: We established quality guidelines, identified strengths and weaknesses in PERLC resources, and improved accessibility to trainings. Guidelines established by this work can be generalized to trainings outside the preparedness domain. Enhancing access to quality training resources can serve as a valuable tool for increasing emergency preparedness competence. Abstract : Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text.