ASPO Abstracts
Decision simulation technology to assess practical application of massage therapists' (MTs) use of a MT-client helping conversation for skin cancer risk reduction
Category: Behavioral Science & Health Communication
Conference Year: 2020
Abstract Body:
Purpose: To report implementation of the branched-narrative decision simulation component of skin cancer risk reduction e-training for massage therapists (MTs), specifically how simulation helps track specific decision pathways, and provide insight into training competencies and MT satisfaction.
Methods: A simulation-based technology platform facilitated assessment of MTs' application of e-training content, specifically steps for having a helping conversation with clients about skin cancer risk reduction. The 5 decision simulation cases were competency-based, mimicked a MT client encounter and helped demonstrate MTs' application of training knowledge. Each simulation branching node had paths of "optimal, feedback, or suboptimal." The choices in each node corresponded to one of 5 helping conversation competencies. We scored each path selected by the MT and tracked performance and choice selection using counters. We downloaded reports of specific learner sessions to view the MT's path through the case, scores, and the amount of real time spent from the first node to the case endpoint. Thirty-six MTs rated their agreement regarding enjoyment of and perceptions of the usefulness of the simulations on a 5-point scale.
Results: Eighty-one MTs completed the simulation in an average of 2.7 minutes. The most common feedback and suboptimal responses corresponded to competencies in the Awareness and Helping steps of the helping conversation (starting the conversation and sharing information, respectively). The expression of personal concern was a common mistake when communicating with the simulated client, as was sharing personal experiences in a potentially negative way. The case with the most suboptimal responses (23.4%) pertained to finding a suspicious lesion on a client. The case with the most optimal responses (69.13%) pertained to sun protection. The majority of MTs (86%) agreed or strongly agreed that they enjoyed the simulations (mean score 4.31); 92% agreed that the simulations helpful to include in the training (mean score 4.36).
Conclusion: Decision simulation technology integrated into e-training modules was useful for assessing practical application of MT knowledge and skills for a MT-client helping conversation for skin cancer risk reduction.
Keywords: decision simulation technology helping conversation knowledge application