Subsequent to researching the etiology and prevention of adolescent drug abuse, successful prevention models have been developed. Our next major hurdle is to bridge the gap between research and practice. A rather daunting challenge, as we move forward with prevention dissemination efforts to promote utilization of effective science-based prevention approaches, is building national training capacity. Many issues arise concerning implementation fidelity, and training. Maintaining quality control, program standardization and certification of trainers and program providers are among them.
A “Training of Trainers” (TOT) was developed for the Life Skills Training (LST) program, a research-based substance abuse prevention curriculum. The three-day TOT workshop is designed to provide information concerning the background, theory, and rationale supporting the LST program; to demonstrate the LST program; to discuss practical implementation issues; and to teach experienced trainers the information and skills necessary to organize and conduct a training workshop with teachers and prevention specialists interested in the LST program.
The TOT trains and certifies individuals who are qualified, experienced, and familiar with the LST curriculum. After the TOT, participants teach the program to adolescents and then co-train with a certified trainer. The highly structured process is to ensure that only qualified and motivated providers conduct LST trainings. Upon completion of the certification process, TOT participants can begin to conduct an LST training across the country with ongoing evaluation performed after each training.
Learning Objectives: APHA members will learn how the Life Skills Training Program maintains program fidelity by conducting periodic training of trainer programs under its supervision
Keywords: Training, Substance Abuse Prevention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: National Health Promotion Associates
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employment