Evaluating the Innovator Training Program: Strengthening Evidence-Based Practice and Building Implementation...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Health Services Research
• Workforce Development and Training
• Implementation Science and Change Management

Background:

• The Australian aged care sector requires enhanced workforce capabilities in innovation and change management.
• The Commonwealth Government of Australia funded the Innovator Training Program (ITP) to address this need.
• Aged Care Research & Industry Innovation Australia (ARIIA) delivered the ITP to foster evidence-based practice and sustainable innovation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of the Innovator Training Program (ITP) for Australian aged care workers.
• To assess the program's impact on participants' capability in implementation and change management.
• To determine the program's contribution to driving sustainable innovation in aged care settings.

Main Methods:

• A multi-methods evaluation was conducted for participants enrolled between April 2022 and April 2023.
• Quantitative data collected via pre- and post-training surveys using validated tools.
• Qualitative data gathered through immediate and follow-up interviews (6 and 12 months post-training).

Main Results:

• Significant improvements observed in confidence to adopt evidence into practice (p < 0.001), research skills (p < 0.001), and mentoring capacity (p < 0.001).
• Participants reported enhanced ability to integrate research, develop project plans, and influence organizational change.
• Qualitative findings indicated improved leadership, collaboration, and career development, with some participants securing new roles.

Conclusions:

• The ITP effectively enhanced participants' confidence and skills in evidence utilization and sustainable implementation planning.
• The program equipped the aged care workforce with crucial skills to contribute to aged-care reform.
• Further research is recommended to explore long-term impacts on practice and organizational outcomes, acknowledging the study's limitations (small sample, self-report reliance).