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Evaluating the Effectiveness of Online Training for a Comprehensive Violence Against Women Program: A Pilot Study

NCJ Number
253622
Journal
Journal of Interpersonal Violence Dated: 2017
Author(s)
Nicole Etherington; Linda Baker; Marlene Ham; Denise Glasbeek
Date Published
2017
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This study sought to fill a research gap by evaluating the effectiveness and value of an online training program in services for female victims of intimate partner violence (IPV), using a pre-/posttest design, comparison group, and mixed-method analysis.
Abstract

Evaluating training that addresses violence against women (VAW) is essential to moving the field forward with proven approaches that can improve service provision for survivors of violence. Given existing resource constraints involved in VAW work, online training is an economical and flexible option; however, existing evaluations of online programs in the VAW field are scant and face a variety of limitations. The program evaluated in the current study was intended to provide foundational knowledge in feminist anti-violence principles and values to a range of individuals working with survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). Program participants (N = 108) included volunteers, students, and professionals from various sectors, enabling the application of the results to a broader field of VAW support services. This is important because individuals who work with IPV survivors may do so in a range of settings outside of the shelter context. Results demonstrate the potential for online VAW training to improve participants' knowledge of and attitudes about VAW, which can positively inform their work with survivors. Qualitative responses provide further insight into course impact and highlight positive and negative aspects of the course. Although preliminary, these results provide justification for continued development and evaluation of online VAW training programs. (publisher abstract modified)