Focusing on the essentials: learning for performance
2008

Learning for Performance in Health Worker Training

Sample size: 18 Commentary 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Catherine J Murphy

Primary Institution: IntraHealth International, Inc.

Hypothesis

Can the Learning for Performance approach improve health worker training outcomes?

Conclusion

The Learning for Performance approach can significantly enhance the effectiveness of health worker training by focusing on essential content and performance-based learning methods.

Supporting Evidence

  • Using Learning for Performance, 74.3% of students in intervention sites performed to standard on clinical skills compared to 16.7% in control sites.
  • Post-test assessments showed all 18 trainees passed knowledge tests and achieved competence in skills assessments.

Takeaway

This study shows that teaching health workers the most important skills in a practical way helps them do their jobs better.

Methodology

The study involved revising training curricula and assessing the effectiveness of the Learning for Performance approach through post-test evaluations.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in self-reported outcomes from trainees and instructors.

Limitations

Other factors influencing learning and performance were not fully addressed.

Participant Demographics

Health workers including community midwives, nursing students, and NGO staff in India, Mali, and Bangladesh.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1478-4491-6-26

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication