4075.0: Tuesday, October 23, 2001 - Table 8

Abstract #27932

Re-inventing school health programs: Challenges and strategies of remaining student-centered with the development of an evidence-based pre-service Health Education Program

RJ Cooper, PhD and Portia Plummer, HSD. Department of Health and Safety, Indiana State University, Arena B-73, Terre Haute, IN 47809, 812-237-3072, hscooper@scifac.indstate.edu

The year 2002 will bring about many changes in professional educational programs throughout Indiana and surrounding states. At that time new educational standards will be implemented and consequently post-secondary education programs will have to meet those expectations. Students will have to move from simply taking classes where the standards are met through course objectives to demonstrating their proficiency via performance. This in addition to changing priorities in pre-service Health Education poses a unique challenge as well as an opportunity for program coordinators. The focus of advocating for child, adolescent and school health should be at the forefront of such programs. Challenges and strategies will be shared from the assessment, development, and implementation phases of this program renovation. The transition to an evidence-based program while remaining student-centered is a top priority. This session targets school health promotion specialists whom are responsible for pre-service and in-service school health teacher education.

Learning Objectives: 1. Identify specific challenges of a pre-service health education program meeting new evidence-based standards. 2. Discuss strategies and implications as a result of evidence-based standards. 3. Describe specific program components that lead to improving child, adolescent and school health advocacy.

Keywords: Challenges and Opportunities, Professional Preparation

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Indiana State University Health Education Program
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.

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA