Evaluation of a Media Training Workshop for Nutrition Students and Trainees in Nova Scotia

Gaps in communication training have been identified in Canadian and international academic and practicum dietetics programs. A workshop was developed to pilot supplementary media training to nutrition students/trainees studying in Nova Scotia. Students, interns, and faculty from two universities participated in the workshop. Data on perceived learning, media knowledge/skill use, and workshop feedback were collected immediately post-workshop using a mixed-form questionnaire. A modified questionnaire was administered eight months post-workshop to obtain information on utility of the perceived acquired knowledge/skills. Closed-ended responses underwent descriptive analysis, while open-ended responses underwent thematic analysis. Twenty-eight participants completed the questionnaire post-workshop, and six completed it at follow-up. All participants rated the workshop positively (7-point Likert scale) and reported learning something new (perceived). Perceived learning emphasized general media knowledge/skills and communication skills. Follow-up data suggested participants had applied perceived media knowledge/skills in message development and media and job interviews. These data suggest that nutrition students/trainees may benefit from supplementary communications and media training and provide a stimulus for ongoing curriculum review and discussion.