E-learning cultural competence for public health workers: A feasibility and pilot study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Workforce Development
• E-learning

Background:

• Cultural competence is crucial for public health workers serving diverse populations.
• Existing training methods may not adequately address the complexities of cultural competence.
• E-learning offers a scalable solution for professional development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a seven-module e-learning intervention.
• To enhance cultural competence among public health workers.
• To assess the impact on migrant trust and satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods design based on the Medical Research Council framework.
• A four-week pilot cluster-randomized controlled trial involving 39 public health workers and 74 migrants.
• Data collection included quantitative measures at baseline, 4, and 12 weeks, and qualitative focus group interviews.

Main Results:

• High rates of initiation, retention, and adherence were observed.
• Participants reported high acceptability and satisfaction with content, but mixed usability feedback.
• Significant improvements were noted in individual cultural competence, migrant trust, and satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• The e-learning intervention is feasible and demonstrates preliminary efficacy in enhancing cultural competence.
• Usability improvements are recommended for future large-scale randomized controlled trials.
• The program shows promise for improving public health worker interactions with migrant populations.