Implementation of In-Service Training in Hematology using a Blended Learning Approach (August – November 2019)
Working with the Bureau of Medical Laboratory Services (BMLS) and Fondation Mérieux (FMX), DMDP launched a blended approach of face-to-face and online training as a program to implement proper practices in verification and validation of hematology testing results.
A cadre of Cambodian laboratory staff were developed as “Training Assistant” or TAs to assist in teaching the curriculum and implementation of the program. The TAs also helped build bridges to other participants who were not familiar with learning methods (i.e., face-to- face and online learning), reading the training materials and/or using English for communication. Forty-six participants were enrolled in the online training sessions. Staff from all levels of healthcare institutions were selected to attend the onsite training session (November 18th to 22nd, 2019) at the Technical School for Medical Care (TSMC), University of Health Sciences (UHS), Phnom Penh.
This training program used active learning methods, i.e., interactive lecture, discussion, case study, role-playing, group exercise, simulation games, brainstorming, and demonstration. A cooperative learning approach was used throughout training sessions to promote teamwork. Participants practiced critical thinking techniques (compare, contrast, analyze, categorize and evaluate) and applied these methods to analysis of automated hematology testing results, to identify problems, list possible solutions and justify actions.
