STDC Pune Learning Corner- Introduction - Description of Best Practice
STDC Pune Learning Corner- Introduction - Description of Best Practice
Maharashtra State TB Training and Demonstration Centre (STDC) situated at Aundh, Pune is a glowing example of application of adult learning principles to impart effective training. The ‘learning corners’ used in STDC Pune, is an amalgamation of various modalities for training various cadres of NTEP staff.
A learning corner comprises a physical corner with audio-visual teaching aids (like display boards, information cards, creative presentations, audio recorded information etc.) on a particular topic, combined with detailed, self-reading material and facilitator-led exercises.
Rationale of the Practice & Implementation Strategy
Rationale of the Practice & Implementation StrategyRationale of the Practice: The learning corner is more of an approach, than a modality and is designed based on the adult learning principles of internal motivation, self-direction and is experience oriented and relevancy oriented. Training using multiple modalities and application of this knowledge for cadre-specific exercises and problem solving, are the highlights of this approach.
Implementation Strategy: Implemented from 2019 onwards, the learning corner was conceptualized by the then STDC Director Dr N D Deshmukh and supported by Training Coordinator Dr Asha Telang and team.
“The learning corner includes display of conceptualized material backed up with audiovisual aids in combination with other teaching modalities for effective learning. I would call these learning corners as teaching/speaking walls. My vision for a training programme is to benefit its participants in acquiring knowledge and bring about a positive change in their attitude and practice after the training. This is one of the successful experiments we have done in STDC Pune.”
DR NANDAKUMAR D DESHMUKH, FORMER DIRECTOR, STDC PUNE
Learning Corners
Learning CornersLearning Corners are present for all activities in the TB care cascade, including
Customized training modules designed by the STDC team, as per the cadre getting trained, are disseminated prior to physical session. [1] [2] During the physical session, an orientation on key concepts is done by the facilitator using creative PowerPoint presentations. The participants then proceed to the learning corners established in the corridors of STDC building and undergo audio-visual experience of the relevant domains. For example, if the participants are learning about sputum collection and packaging, they would proceed to the relevant learning corner, read and understand the information board on the same, while the audio recording of the procedure of sputum collection and sample packaging will be played through speakers in the learning corner (Fig 2). The trainer/facilitator will also demonstrate the correct method of sample packaging using actual packaging materials. Fig 2 Learning corner at Pune STDC on sputum s ample collection & Fig 3 Learning corner at Pune STDC on sputum s ample collection.
The participants return to the classroom for in-depth discussions along with videos on the topic learnt and will be given exercise cards which will have a problem- solving exercise. For example, a case scenario will be described in the exercise card and the participant will be asked to do a cadre-specific problem solving (Fig 3), like filling the relevant reporting format for an STS trainee or describing the relevant treatment regimen for a medical officer trainee. The participants are then asked to apply the concepts learned to data from their own centre and present it among the trainees. This is applied and utility-based learning for each cadre, which empowers them to work confidently in the field.
“The learning corner was a new experience. The digital modalities employed in this training programme, especially the audiovisual content, helped me understand the key concepts in TB care cascade in a better manner. I also benefited a lot from the group discussions conducted, we learnt a lot of practical tips.” - Feedback of Trainee from STLS batch
Outcomes & Resources Utilized
Outcomes & Resources Utilized
Outcomes: Trainings for several batches of various cadres in NTEP, including District TB Officers (DTO), Medical Officers (MO), private doctors, Senior Treatment Supervisors (STS), Senior TB Laboratory Supervisor (STLS), pharmacists, PPM coordinators, TB Health Visitors (TBHV) and DOTS supervisors have been carried out successfully using this approach since 2019. Apart from appreciation from participants, the trainers/facilitators also feel that the approach has made their work more effective.
Resources Utilized: Learning corner was operationalized using pooled funds from the National Health Mission (NHM), the Maharashtra State Government, corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds of firms and a few personal donations. The training content was curated by the STDC team and printing of various IEC materials was supported by the State Health IEC department. The physical components of the learning corner including audiovisual system establishment cost about INR 2 lakhs and the training videos were produced as a CSR initiative.
“The learning corner approach helps us to break down the concepts into simpler terms and hence it becomes easier for the participants to internalize it. Also, the activity-based learning helps combat the monotony of classroom learning and participants are more receptive to our sessions.”- -DR ASHA TELANG, TRAINING COORDINATOR, STDC PUNE