iLookOut for Child Abuse: Micro-learning to improve knowledge retention

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT The epidemic of child abuse in the U.S. (>675,000 confirmed annually) causes massive harm to children and the adults they become. Sequelae include physical disabilities and neurological damage, mental health problems, maladaptive behaviors, and perpetuating cycles of abuse. Young children (ages 0–5 years) are particularly vulnerable to victimization. They account for >75% of deaths from abuse and a greater proportion of victims than older children for all categories of maltreatment except sexual abuse. Yet despite 8-12 million American children being in childcare, early childhood professionals (ECPs) report fewer than 1% (~2,500) of all substantiated cases of child abuse. Research shows that ECPs are not well-prepared to identify at-risk children, and there is a widespread need for evidence-based interventions that improve ECP reporting of suspected child abuse while also avoiding inappropriate reporting. Our current 5-year study is evaluating the efficacy of an innovative educational intervention, iLook Out for Child Abuse (iLookOut) at promoting and sustaining both knowledge and behavior change with regard to concerns about child abuse. Grounded in an experiential learning conceptual model, iLookOut is a multi-media, online intervention that engages learners emotionally and cognitively using an interactive, video-based storyline that provides education, challenges learners with decision points, and gives critical feedback. iLookOut uses gamification strategies and simulation to promote experiential learning through problem- solving. It also includes follow-up activities to promote retention and integration of new knowledge and to help ECPs remain aware and engaged. Prior studies demonstrate that iLookOut's Core Training significantly improves knowledge and attitudes about reporting suspected child abuse and is well received by ECPs. To evaluate its impact on sustaining knowledge and changing behavior, our current grant will administer knowledge and behavioral measures before and after iLookOut's Core Training and its Advanced Training. This Administrative Supplement will 1) resolve problems with data integrity by transitioning to a new learning management system (LMS) in advance of beginning recruitment for the current study; 2) enable iLookOut's Core Training and Micro-Learning interventions to be deployed for the duration of the current grant period using this new LMS; and 3) help ensure continued nationwide delivery of iLookOut programs to Head Start through the end of the current grant period (through July 31, 2027 with an anticipated 1-year no-cost extension).