Modernizing Training in Psychotherapy Competencies With Adaptive Learning Systems: Proof of Concept

• Published in: Research on social work practice Vol. 31; no. 1; pp. 90 - 100
• Main Authors: Renn, Brenna N., Areán, Patricia A., Raue, Patrick J., Aisenberg, Eugene, Friedman, Emily C., Popović, Zoran
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Los Angeles, CA SAGE Publications 01-01-2021; SAGE PUBLICATIONS, INC
• Subjects: Adaptive learning; Classrooms; Clinical skills; Cognitive behavioral therapy; Cognitive-behavioral factors; College students; Competence; Competency based learning; Evidence-based practice; Feasibility; Intelligence; Modernization; Professional training; Psychotherapy; Social education; Social work; Social work education; Students; Telephone service; Training; Tutoring; Undergraduate students; intelligent tutoring; psychotherapy; adaptive training; eLearning
• ISSN: 1049-7315; 1552-7581
• DOI: 10.1177/1049731520964854

Purpose:
This proof-of-concept study assessed the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of an intelligent tutoring system (ITS) as a classroom adjunct to improve training bachelor of social work (BSW) students in client engagement strategies.
Methods:
We codeveloped the ITS with 11 undergraduate students and pilot tested it with six BSW students enrolled in a class on telephone-based cognitive behavioral therapy (tCBT). Student competencies in tCBT were assessed by expert review of role-plays. We also examined time spent using ITS and relation with competency.
Results:
The majority of students (81.8%) in Wave 1 and all of the students who submitted role-plays in Wave 2 passed the clinical skills role-play. Students advancing through the ITS more quickly had better tCBT competency ratings than those progressing more slowly.
Discussion:
One of the most challenging aspects of training is how to competently deliver evidence-based practices. ITS has the potential to streamline and scale such training.