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A nutrition/health training program for Peace Corps volunteers
S M Bahl1, D A Orban, I D Montoya
1Program in Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston 77225.
Journal of the American Dietetic Association
|January 1, 1989
Summary
This study outlines a 5-week Peace Corps training program model for health and nutrition volunteers. The curriculum emphasized practical skills and maternal/child health for effective work in developing countries.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- International Health Education
- Volunteer Training Programs
Background:
- Nutrition and health education are vital for Peace Corps' mission.
- Peace Corps volunteers require specialized preparation for international assignments.
- Effective training is essential for volunteers working in diverse global settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a model for a 5-week Peace Corps volunteer training program.
- To detail the curriculum and methods used in preparing health and nutrition trainees.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the training program.
Main Methods:
- A 5-week training program was developed based on Peace Corps guidelines.
- The curriculum covered fundamental nutrition, health, and community development topics.
- Fifty percent of the training involved practical, hands-on clinical activities.
Main Results:
- The training included nine health-related degree-holding women aged 22-61.
- Key areas included basic nutrition, maternal/child health, and communicable diseases.
- Trainee progress was assessed via weekly quizzes and a final project.
Conclusions:
- The training program model effectively prepared Peace Corps volunteers in nutrition and health.
- Emphasis on maternal and child health addresses critical needs in developing countries.
- The program's structure and content offer valuable insights for similar international health initiatives.