Article type
Year
Abstract
Background: Evidence-informed decision making is emerging as a must-have skill in public health. Job candidates are expected to know how to integrate research and community-level evidence into practice, program and policy decisions. Public health organizations that champion evidence use in Canada have integrated evidence-informed decision making skills assessments into the hiring process.
Objectives: As leaders in evidence-informed public health, the National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools (NCCMT) sought to develop a program that would allow public health students and professionals to build the skills they need to enter an evidence-informed workplace as well as achieve the certification required to distinguish themselves in pools of applicants.
Methods: The NCCMT developed an online suite of learning modules focused on developing skills for evidence-informed public health. The modules offer interactive, problem-based learning incorporating realistic public health scenarios. Through a partnership with McMaster University Continuing Health Sciences Education, successful completion of the suite of modules grants the learner a certificate in evidence-informed public health endorsed by McMaster University, a global leader in evidence-based practice.
Results: Since launching the certificate program in late 2017, over 300 learners have registered for the modules. The majority of registrants have been students, indicating the perceived value of a certificate issued by a globally-recognized leader in evidence-informed practice when entering the workforce. Analysis of pre- and post-module tests of knowledge and skill indicate an increase in scores.
Conclusions: As the prioritization of evidence-informed practice continues to increase across Canada and worldwide, there is a need for accessible training in evidence use for public health professionals. The NCCMT has developed an online program that delivers this training and distinguishes successful learners with a globally-recognized certificate for evidence-informed public health.
Objectives: As leaders in evidence-informed public health, the National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools (NCCMT) sought to develop a program that would allow public health students and professionals to build the skills they need to enter an evidence-informed workplace as well as achieve the certification required to distinguish themselves in pools of applicants.
Methods: The NCCMT developed an online suite of learning modules focused on developing skills for evidence-informed public health. The modules offer interactive, problem-based learning incorporating realistic public health scenarios. Through a partnership with McMaster University Continuing Health Sciences Education, successful completion of the suite of modules grants the learner a certificate in evidence-informed public health endorsed by McMaster University, a global leader in evidence-based practice.
Results: Since launching the certificate program in late 2017, over 300 learners have registered for the modules. The majority of registrants have been students, indicating the perceived value of a certificate issued by a globally-recognized leader in evidence-informed practice when entering the workforce. Analysis of pre- and post-module tests of knowledge and skill indicate an increase in scores.
Conclusions: As the prioritization of evidence-informed practice continues to increase across Canada and worldwide, there is a need for accessible training in evidence use for public health professionals. The NCCMT has developed an online program that delivers this training and distinguishes successful learners with a globally-recognized certificate for evidence-informed public health.