Distance Learning

Studies have shown an appreciable interest, capacity, and preference for online learning at state and local levels. Three-fourths of agencies surveyed had the capacity to access web-based programs, and two-thirds of respondents reported having agency approval to use the web for continuing education during work hours.1 Distance learning in the public health sector is "increasingly viewed as the most promising tool for improving overall quality, safety and efficiency of the health delivery system."2 However, there is a documented gap between federal investment in technology and professional skills in using it to advance MCH. In fact, the redesigned U.S. Public Health Service's goals include a recommendation to "improve IT skills among public health professionals and medical practitioners."3

NCEMCH has responded to Title V and other state agencies who have expressed ongoing needs for quality online trainings to address emerging MCH issues. Faculty and staff have developed numerous distance learning curricula and have partnered with other federally-funded projects at Georgetown University to develop online learning platforms for the MCH workforce.

The Health Information Group works with many federally- and state-funded projects at Georgetown University to develop distance learning curricula. This gateway provides access to these online courses. Choose from the categories below:


Please contact NCEMCH if you would like to discuss using one of our distance learning projects in your work or to develop a new distance learning solution for your training needs.


Microlearning

Microlearning is an effective and emerging learning style to address the pressures of time constraints, information overload, and busy schedules by providing highly relevant and curated materials in small bursts at regular intervals. Benefits of microlearning include:

  • Microcontent. Learning occurs in small, bite-sized segments that are easy to achieve and incorporate.
  • Focused content. Access to highly relevant information happens without a lot of clutter.
  • Incremental learning. Learning bursts that are frequent and short build upon each other.
  • Just-in-time. Acquiring information happens at your own pace, when you need it.
  • Communal learning. Technology allows learners to see what others are thinking, share ideas, and ask questions.
  • Multitasking and learning. Information can be gathered on-the-go, especially through mobile devices.

The Health Information Group developed the MCH Navigator’s microlearning platform and programs.


Health Promotion

Building on Campaigns with Conversations

This series of learning modules is designed for professionals who interact with families on topics of safe sleep and breastfeeding.


Well-Child Care: A Bright Futures Curriculum for Pediatric Providers

This curriculum is designed for health professionals who provide well-child care, and particularly to those served by state MCH programs or by Medicaid's Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) program. The curriculum consists of 10 half-hour modules. A Well-Child Care Pocket Guide is also available. (Registration and accreditation fees apply).


HealthCheck Training Curriculum

The HealthCheck training curriculum was developed for health professionals in the District of Columbia to serve as a self-directed online learning experience; a review of important HealthCheck and EPSDT requirements and services; and a source for current information and updates.


Helping Babies, Healing Families: An Online Program Manual & Trainer's Guide for Sudden & Unexpected Infant/Child Death & Pregnancy Loss

This online learning tool supports staff in local and State programs in their efforts to provide comprehensive Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and Infant Death (SIDS/ID) program services in both risk reduction (so that children have the best chance of surviving the risk period for SIDS/ID) and bereavement support for families in cases where an unexpected infant/child death does occur.


Mental Health and Development

Contemporary Practices in Early Intervention

CPEI consists of six training modules and provider resources designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of early intervention service providers from the education, health care, therapeutic, and social service fields. The main purpose of CPEI is to meet the critical need for training in comprehensive, evidence-based early intervention practices.



Cultural and Linguistic Competence


Oral Health


Physical Activity and Nutrition

One Step at a Time: Helping Young Children Be Physically Active!—Bright Futures Obesity Prevention Training for Child Care Providers

A curriculum that helps child care providers working in local programs make sure young children are physically active.


Around the Table: Promoting Healthy Eating Through Food & Culture

This 6-module online curriculum explores the relationship between food and culture to address childhood obesity.