'It's all in the science' Prevention Programming and Implementation Stategies

Watch recording of training below

Prevention Science: The foundation for health education and health promotionSpeaker: Nicole Hackley, Youth Connections Workforce Development Coordinator 

Abstract: Primary prevention is multidisciplinary, with many fields of knowledge contributing to the understanding of human development and the factors and processes that lead to positive or negative health behaviors and outcomes. Throughout this presentation, attendees will gain insight to prevention theories that protect or put at risk the social, emotional, and physical health of individuals, families, and communities. Audience members will increase their capacity to create positive individual behavior and environmental change that affects a community’s overall health and wellbeing.   

Learning Outcomes:  

1. Define key concepts and goals of prevention science 
2. Understand a brief overview of prevention science theories  
3. Identify how using prevention science leads to community change  

Prevention Interventions: Considerations when adapting an intervention 
Speaker: Dr. Nate Riggs, Executive Director, Colorado State University Prevention Research Center 

Abstract:Communities often struggle with the tension between adhering to the implementation of prevention programs with strict fidelity (i.e., implementing programs exactly as intended by developers) and the need to adapt programs for their community’s unique context and culture. Current implementation science research suggests that programs can be adapted if done so according to established best practices. This presentation will summarize the latest research in prevention program implementation and adaptation and will introduce audience members to the Colorado State University Prevention Research Center’s (PRC’s) implementation and adaptation research-to-practice tools. Audience members will learn when and how program adaptations can be made while retaining program effectiveness.   

Learning outcomes  

1. Describe frameworks of prevention program fidelity and adaptation 
2. Assess when adaptations can be made according to best practice 
3. Apply the PRC’s research-to-practice tools to making community-specific program adaptations

Understanding behavior change to maximize intervention efficacy 
Speaker: Dr. Mark Schure, Associate Professor, Health & Human Development, Montana State University 

Abstract:Health behavioral theories have been used in health research to help understand the context upon which behaviors exist or not exist. They have also been used to better effect change in behavior. This presentation will summarize several common health behavior theories and theoretical constructs. Audience members will learn applications of theories in intervention research and practical ways to enhance the impact of health interventions.   

Learning outcomes  

1. Describe several theories as they relate to more effective behavior change in health interventions 
2. Assess the context for any given health behavior 
3. Apply key theoretical constructs to any given behavior change intervention 

Community Systems for Prevention 
Speaker: Dr. David MacPhee, Director Colorado State University Prevention Research Center 

Abstract:A core aspect of the research-to-practice process is establishing a firm foundation for evidence-based programs and practices to take root. Among the key building blocks of this foundation are community buy-in and readiness, well-functioning coalitions, and technical assistance. This presentation will review the core features of community systems that support effective prevention efforts, with examples of best practices as well as cautionary tales of what can undermine a program’s impact and sustainability.  

Learning outcomes:  

1. Describe the core competencies and processes needed within collaborative bodies to facilitate their success 
2. Apply the processes involved in community-based participatory research to various stages of prevention program implementation 
3. Apply the core features of effective community delivery systems (e.g., PROSPER) to implementing sustainable prevention programs