The systems approach: an innovative model for improving the delivery of inservice training

A systems approach consisting of eight elements was used in the design, implementation, and evaluation of a module for physical therapy inservice training at McDonald Army Hospital, Fort Eustis, Virginia. Use of this approach was aimed at increasing the effectiveness of learning, improving participant attitudes toward inservice training, and developing a model which could be used for delivering inservice training throughout the helping professions. The design requires that the problem area be selected by staff consensus--in this case planning and administration of therapeutic exercise programs for patients with hip dysfunctions. Five sessions which centered around this patient oriented problem area were presented by the physical therapist to the three physical therapy technicians. Principles of instructional design and events of instruction were incorporated using the format of Gagne and Briggs (1979). The technicians' perception of physical therapy inservice training was rated before the implementation of the systems approach, after the second inservice session, and after the final inservice session. By the end of the five inservice sessions, all three technicians were able to accomplish the predetermined goal of planning and administering a safe therapeutic exercise program to patients with hip dysfunctions. Progress notes also indicated that patient programs were being appropriately upgraded based on the patient's condition. Technicians' ratings of inservice training also had increased after the final session. Further implementation and evaluation of this approach to training is recommended.