Client: Schmieding Center, Springdale AR
Program Link: www.elderstayathome.com
Program Link: www.elderstayathome.com
Problem:
The Schmieding Center's evidence-based in-home eldercare training program, In-Home Assistant, was limited to classroom-based instruction, hindering accessibility for those who could not physically attend. A new state law mandated certification for all paid elder caregivers, prompting the need for an accredited, fully distance, asynchronous training solution delpoyed within 18 months.
The Schmieding Center's evidence-based in-home eldercare training program, In-Home Assistant, was limited to classroom-based instruction, hindering accessibility for those who could not physically attend. A new state law mandated certification for all paid elder caregivers, prompting the need for an accredited, fully distance, asynchronous training solution delpoyed within 18 months.
Approach:
My team at the University of Arkansas' Workforce Development Unit undertook a comprehensive approach:
Curriculum Analysis: Evaluated curriculum alignment and learning objectives.
Student Analysis: Explored the demographics and specialized needs of learners.
Collaboration: Engaged with Schmieding's instructors to devise strategies.
Content Enhancement: Developed engaging elements like animated characters, annotated graphics, live-action skills demos, anecdotes, and interactive modules.
Skills Assessment: Created user-friendly video instructions for skills assessment. Tool kits were mailed to each student.
Accessibility: Addressed needs of diverse learners, including low-literacy and English-additional language learners.
Deployment: Used Blackboard LMS with Articulate for asynchronous lessons, video demos, and assessments.
Beta Testing: Incorporated feedback from a pilot group for improvements.
Accreditation Review: Created report documentation for the state accreditation committee and received approval
Evolution: Implemented a schedule for reviews and continuous improvement
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Blackboard Lesson Modules: Each asynchronous lesson contains a video,
Articulate module, and activities for instructor feedback
Articulate module, and activities for instructor feedback
End-of-lesson practice assessments helped learners prepare
for the final high-stakes exam.
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Conclusion:
Ahead of the deadline, the new In-Home Assistant online course was well-received. Schmieding deployed it state-wide, garnering appreciation and enthusiasm from both instructors and students. The success led to further collaborations on four additional courses in the series, including Personal Care Assistant, Family Care Advocate, Elder Pal, and Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
Ahead of the deadline, the new In-Home Assistant online course was well-received. Schmieding deployed it state-wide, garnering appreciation and enthusiasm from both instructors and students. The success led to further collaborations on four additional courses in the series, including Personal Care Assistant, Family Care Advocate, Elder Pal, and Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
Student Handbooks were redesigned as responsive digital formats
