Three model curricula for teaching clinicians to use the ICF

Area of Science:

• Health professions education
• Rehabilitation sciences
• Public health

Background:

• The World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) is a crucial tool for health professionals.
• Standardized training is needed to ensure effective and consistent application of the ICF.
• Evaluating different training modalities is essential for optimizing learning outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate three distinct training programs designed to enhance health professionals' use of the ICF.
• To compare the effectiveness of different training formats (instructor-led vs. self-directed, workshops, internet-based modules) on ICF knowledge, attitudes, and coding skills.
• To identify optimal training strategies for various professional groups and learning objectives.

Main Methods:

• A randomized study compared a 2-hour instructor-led program with a self-directed module for occupational therapy graduate students.
• Intensive 3.5-day workshops were conducted for public sector rehabilitation professionals in South Africa.
• Internet-based teaching modules were developed for graduate students in rehabilitation counseling.

Main Results:

• Both instructor-led and self-guided training improved basic ICF knowledge, but instructor-led training significantly enhanced coding skills and attitudes.
• Training in South Africa demonstrated generalizability, with professionals achieving high coding accuracy after a 3.5-day workshop.
• Participants in all programs reported positive learning experiences and favorable views of the ICF.

Conclusions:

• Empirical evidence is vital for determining the most effective and efficient ICF training methods for specific audiences and goals.
• Training length and format significantly influence outcomes related to knowledge, attitudes, and coding skills.
• Interactive distance learning can mitigate the limitations of self-directed training compared to face-to-face instruction.