Blended Training for Frontline Health Functionaries: Is this the Way Ahead?

To test the change in the knowledge of the study participants following a Blended Training and Learning Approach (BTLA). Secondly, the paper also tries to discuss the use of this method over the classical classroom based trainings. Frontline health functionaries are the backbone of almost all health goals. It is therefore essential to ensure proper training of this cadre of workers for optimum service delivery. The present paper tries to discuss the use of an effective new training pedagogy over the classical classroom based trainings.
A cross‑sectional study was conducted from August 2013 to April 2014 in all districts in the state of Odisha. The study participants comprised of two groups. Group 1: Integrated Child Development Services supervisors, Child Development Project Officers received training on reduction of stunting. Group 2: Nutrition Counselors and Auxiliary Nurses and Midwifes received training on management of severe acute malnutrition (SAM). Selection of participants was done following complete enumeration technique. The training effectiveness was measured using paired t‑test. Out of approximately 2400 participants identified across the state of Odisha, 2350 participants provided consent to participate in the study.
The change in knowledge was determined by using paired t‑test. The results of the paired t‑test for the training on reduction of stunting were significant, P The newly tried and tested pedagogy of training would provide the necessary evidence for future policy decisions.