6026.0: Thursday, November 16, 2000 - 9:10 AM

Abstract #15293

How do I Evaluate Preservice Education Programs? Let me Count the Ways

Susan Griffey Brechin, DrPH, BSN1, Kama Garrison, MPH1, Tamara Smith, MPH1, and Maryjane LaCoste, MPH2. (1) Research and Evaluation Office, JHPIEGO Corporation, 1615 Thames Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, 410-614-0526, sbrechin@jhpiego.org, (2) East and Southern Africa Office, JHPIEGO Corporation, 1615 Thames Street, Baltimore, MD 21231

Basic education to prepare nurses, midwives and physicians requires that the system be strengthened so that students are in appropriate learning environments. For training healthcare providers as FP/RH service providers, this includes strengthening the clinical practice area as well as the classroom-based knowledge arena. Components of a functioning training system include an updated FP/RH curriculum approved/implemented, trained faculty/clinical preceptors providing and supervising FP/RH instruction/clinical practice, sufficient quantities of training materials to support ongoing training, and service sites functioning effectively as clinical training sites. These components must be in place and functioning before the first group of students can benefit from the updated and strengthened learning.

The conceptual framework for evaluating the effectiveness of preservice programs examines both program capacity and different aspects of performance. Program performance/capacity is assessed using benchmarks of progress to track program efforts in the components identified above. A training capacity index illustrates the progress towards sustainability as the components are strengthened. Examples from several countries will illustrate the use of this index. Evaluations in Uganda, Philippines, and Nepal supplement the index, documenting the strength of the base and progress towards a strengthened learning environment.

Faculty/preceptor performance and performance of graduates/providers demonstrate that learning is being transferred and that providers are competent. Multimethod designs are used to examine the way in which trainers are training and providers are practicing. Results assessing knowledge, skills and experience through observation/simulations, service statistics, and stated/implied practices from interviews/questionnaires from programs in Kenya, Nepal and other countries will illuminate the conceptual framework.

Learning Objectives: Describe the conceptual framework for evaluating the effectiveness of preservice programs, examining both program capacity and different aspects of performance

Keywords: Reproductive Health,

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: JHPIEGO Corporation: International Education in Training and Reproductive Health
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employeed by JHPIEGO

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA