The Pacific Islands Maternal and Child Health Distance Learning Project is piloting an alternative method of technical assistance to Maternal and Child Health Coordinators and staff of the six U.S. Related Pacific Island Jurisdictions. The project was developed to address the need for information and support in the completion of the needs assessment and program plan for the Title V grant application.
Training modules were developed and made available through the internet. Participants also received CDs with the modules so that each participant could access the information on any computer at their convenience at any time, without costly internet connection. Step-by-step instructions for upgrading browser software and using e-mail to communicate with the instructors were also included. The audio portion of the modules was delivered with the G2 version of RealPlayer. Communication with participants was enhanced by face-to-face meetings at a conference, limited use of video conferences, and dovetailing with separately conducted technical assistance visits to several locations.
Evaluation of the content, methods, and participant use of technology is an ongoing process. The final evaluation will focus on assessing the usefulness of this technology as a cost-effective method of technical assistance. The implications for the success of this technology are tremendous for remote Pacific Island jurisdictions in the possibilities of expanding the opportunities for continuing education and technical assistance in all areas of public health.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Distance Learning, Asian and Pacific Islander
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.