Process and outcome evaluation of a diabetes prevention education program for community healthcare workers in Thailand.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the development, process and outcome evaluation of a culturally tailored diabetes prevention education program for community healthcare workers (CHCWs) in Thailand.


METHODS
A tailored diabetes prevention education program was designed based on formative research and implemented with 35 CHCWs in semi-urban areas in Chiang Mai province, Thailand. Modules were delivered over eight group classes and eight self-directed E-learning sessions (www.FitThai.org). The program incorporated problem-based learning, discussion, reflection, community-based application, self-evaluation and on-line support. The frequency that students accessed on-line materials, including videotaped lectures, readings, monthly newsletters and community resources, was documented. Participant satisfaction was assessed through three questionnaires. Knowledge was assessed through pre-post testing.


RESULTS
Three-quarters of participants attended all eight classes and no participant attended fewer than six. On-line support and materials were accessed 3 to 38 times (median 13). Participants reported that program information and activities were fun, useful, culturally-relevant and applicable to diabetes prevention in their specific communities. Participants also appreciated the innovative technology support for their work. Comfort with E-learning varied among participants. Scores on pre-post knowledge test increased from a mean (sd) of 56.5% (6.26) to 75.5% (6.01) (p < .001).


CONCLUSIONS
An innovative diabetes prevention education program was developed for CHCWs in Thailand. Interactive classroom modules and self-directed E-learning were generally well-received and supported better knowledge scores. Ongoing access to web-based materials and expert support may help sustain learning.
Sranacharoenpong
Kitti
K
University of Waterloo, Department of Health Studies and Gerontology, Ontario, Canada. ksranach@gmail.com
Hanning
Rhona M
RM
Sirichakwal
Prapaisri P
PP
Chittchang
Uraiporn
U
D000328:Adult; D003150:Community Health Workers / Q000193:education*; D003258:Consumer Behavior; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013785:Thailand