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This study examines the association between class size, teacher characteristics and five non-cognitive student outcomes (i.e., self-control, interpersonal skills, approaches to learning, externalizing and internalizing problem behaviors) in grades K-3. Individual fixed-effects, that control for observed and unobserved time-invariant factors, including student and school time-constant variables, are employed to analyze national data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Kindergarten Class of 2010-11 (ECLS-K:2011). Results suggest a significant linear association between reducing class size and interpersonal skills. Teacher experience is saliently, positively and significantly related with student self-control, interpersonal skills, and approaches to learning, and negatively associated with externalizing problem behaviors. Teacher education and certification were not associated with any of the five non-cognitive outcomes. Changing schools had a negative effect on student's self-control.

The objective of the research is to explore the aim, application and strategy perceived as important in the development of an outbound open innovation policy for exploitation of intellectual creation, design and creativity in Malaysian public universities (MPUs). Under existing intellectual property, innovation and commercialization policies, a large portion of intellectual design, creation and creativity in MPUs remain unexploited. Hence, the need to develop a new set of aim, application and strategy to promote the exploitation of intellectual design, creation and creativity in MPUs. The research conducts a survey involving respondents representing the Technology Licensing Office of 15 MPUs. The research also analysed outbound open innovation policies from five universities in Australia, UK, US and South Africa. These policies provide the basis in the development of the survey instrument of the research. The survey instrument contains nine items outlining the aim, application and strategy for exploitation of an outbound open innovation policy. The survey findings indicate that eight of the items are perceived as important for the development of the policy. The findings of the survey provide a beneficial input for the development of an outbound open innovation policy for exploitation of intellectual design, creation and creativity in MPU.

Collaborative teaming among specialists can enhance educational success by leveraging resources and building capacity to maximize effectiveness. Special educators' change in perceptions of their efficacy as collaborators in the education of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was studied before and after completing a year-long federally funded graduate certificate program in autism. Self-perceptions of collaborative expertise were examined in eight cohorts of educators over 7 years. Analysis of the results indicated a significant increase in perceptions of efficacy level in six of the cohorts at = 0.006. The size of the effect of the program on participants' self-perceptions of their efficacy in working collaboratively with other school personnel was large for seven of the cohorts and medium for one. Most importantly, results from Greenhouse-Geisser analysis showed that the posttest scores on collaboration efficacy level were significantly higher than the pretest scores across all cohorts, and that the pattern of change in pretest to posttest scores was similar across all eight cohorts.

The role that educational diagnosticians play in the educational process can vary across settings. In Texas, the Texas Education Agency oversees the State Board of Educator Certification (SBEC). SBEC certification standards outline knowledge and skills that are required for educational diagnosticians to practice in Texas. The Texas required endorsement is acquired by passing a state mandated assessment covering the standards set by SBEC (TAC§231.623). Given the evolving role of an educational diagnostician, this study examined the perceptions of educational diagnosticians, administrators, and classroom teachers of the competencies in regards to implementation, utilization, and importance. Furthermore, this study sought to determine if years of experience in education affects these perceptions. Results indicate that administrators and teachers perceive the utilization of competencies to occur at a lower rate than diagnosticians report utilizing them, and years of experience showed no statistically significant effect on perceptions. No statistically significant interactions were found among position, years of experience, and perceptions of the competencies.

North Carolina's Race to the Top (RttT) grant earmarked approximately $17.5 million to "increase the number of principals qualified to lead transformational change in low-performing schools in both rural and urban areas" (NCDPI, 2010, p.10). To accomplish this, the state established three Regional Leadership Academies (RLAs) "approved for certifying principals [and] designed to . . . provide a new model for the preparation, early career support, and continuous professional development of school leaders" (NCDPI, 2010, p.10). This article describes the independent evaluation of this initiative including the recruitment, selection, training, placement, and expenditure processes associated with each RLA. [NOTE: Page 103 was removed from the attached PDF because it was a blank page.]

Open Educational Resources (OER) emerged within the context of open education which is typically characterized by the sharing of knowledge and resources and the exchange of ideas. Unisa as a mega open distance learning (ODL) university has publicly communicated its intention to take part in the use and creation of OER. As global and local university research on OER is limited, this prompted an investigation to gauge the uptake of OER at Unisa, by staff, with the purpose of institutional information gathering for decision making and planning in this area. During 2014, a survey was undertaken for this reason. The survey examined knowledge of OER, Intellectual Property (IP) Rights and Licensing, participation in OER, barriers to OER and OER in the Unisa context with a view to determining the stage at which the institution is in terms of adopting and engaging with the OER initiative. The results indicated that although there is knowledge and understanding of OER, this has not been converted into active participation. It further highlighted the barriers that are prohibiting the operationalization of OER and resulted in recommendations for planning and activities in respect of OER. The constructs investigated and the results thereof might not be generalizable to other contexts, although commonalities are likely. The insights should prove useful to a variety of contexts. The paper illustrates the need for institutions, irrespective of context, to take stock of the impact of initiatives and in this case evaluate how the institution and staff mature through various phases in the uptake of OER in order to guide effective planning, decision making and implementation.

Most research on graduate students with disabilities (SWDs) has focused on medical education. The purposes of this study were to: (1) estimate the prevalence of students with physical disabilities (SWPDs) in physical therapy programs, (2) identify common types of physical disabilities, (3) document the types of accommodations requested by SWPDs, (4) describe perceptions of faculty and students related to the impacts of accommodations, (5) describe the success rate of SWPDs, and (6) compare perceptions of faculty and students regarding potential employment opportunities and licensure restriction for SWPDs. Two surveys were created to gather quantitative and qualitative data from program directors, faculty, and students from the 210 PT and 280 PTA programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. Respondents included 190 faculty and 720 students and results indicated that there are fewer SWPDs in physical therapy programs than in all graduate programs nationwide (5%, 7% respectively) and a small number of them experience some form of discrimination. The physical disabilities encountered are mostly sensory and half receive accommodations with little impact on other students or faculty. While more programs are providing students with information on the essential functions for PTs/PTAs, more data are needed to inform the academy about factors influencing whether or not SWDs pursue careers in physical therapy, clinical instructors' and patients' perceptions, and resources used to foster success.

Torey Hayden's teacher stories are first-person accounts of being a teacher in classrooms for students with emotional and behavioral disorders. Hayden's books offer readers a real-world look at the joys and challenges of teaching children whose lives are marked by emotional and behavioral disorders, child abuse and trauma, anger and defeat. Hayden's first book was "One Child" (Hayden, 1980), the story of Sheila, a silent, troubled girl who tied a three-year-old boy to a tree and critically burned him. "One Child" was followed by "Somebody Else's Kids" (Hayden, 1982); "Murphy's Boy" (Hayden, 1983); "Just Another Kid" (Hayden, 1986); "Ghost Girl" (Hayden, 1992); "The Tiger's Child" (Hayden, 1995); the sequel to "One Child", titled "Beautiful Child" (Hayden, 2002); and "Twilight Children" (Hayden, 2006). Hayden's nonfiction narratives are especially helpful for understanding relationships (Marlowe, 2012). Her stories emphasize relationship skills, intuition, and the social milieu in changing children's behavior and give voice to the synergistic power of relationships between a teacher and her students. A series of studies (Marlowe & Maycock, 2000, 2001; Marlowe, Maycock, Palmer, & Morrison, 1997) examined the short-term influence of Hayden's teacher stories on preservice teachers' attitudes. These studies documented that reading, discussing, and writing about Hayden resulted in positive attitude changes over the course of a 15-week semester. Marlowe and Disney (2007) conducted a 10-year follow-up survey examining practicing teachers' perceptions of the long-term influence of reading Hayden's teacher narratives in preservice teacher education. Participants (N=132), who had an average of 5 years of teaching experience, reported that Hayden's stories were a positive influence in preparing them to teach, in forming their teacher attitudes and identity, and in developing their own relationship skills. However, these data were returned anonymously, and individual responses could not be tracked to determine changes in participant beliefs. The purpose of this study is to replicate and extend Marlowe and Disney's research by conducting a 20-year follow-up survey.

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) can be considered a rather novel method in digital workplace learning, and there is as yet little empirical evidence on the acceptance and effectiveness of MOOCs in professional learning. In addition to existing findings on employers' attitudes, this study seeks to investigate the employee perspective towards MOOCs in professional contexts and to further explore the acceptance of MOOCs for workplace learning. In a survey study, N = 119 employees from a wide range of enterprises were questioned with regard to motivation, credentials, and incentives related to participation in MOOCs. Findings indicate a high importance of on-the-job and career development learning purposes as well as a general interest in MOOC topics. Credentials are deemed necessary, yet their acceptance among the relevant stakeholders is considered rather low. Implications for design and implementation of MOOCs in digital workplace learning and for further research are discussed.

Purpose: This article explores how voluntary certifications influence the way cooperatives provide advisory services to their members and the influence of these services on agricultural practices. Design/Methodology/Approach: Case studies were conducted in four representative Costa Rican cooperatives interviewing twenty interviewed cooperative administrators and members to determine changes in advisory services and farming practices over the past twenty years and factors which influenced those changes. Findings: Certifications induce cooperatives to offer new services to support farmers. Cooperatives form collaborations with new stakeholders or reconfigure existing collaborations to provide advisory services to their members. These services have helped to shape farmers' attitudes about sustainable farming practices, though farm-level changes may be small. The main change at the cooperative level is adding new topics for group training, and certification issues are directly linked with practices such as maintaining a farm record book or wearing a mask when applying pesticides. Practices which compete with productivity are unlikely to change. Practical Implications: The results are useful to improve the advisory services provided by cooperatives by better identifying the key issues to be addressed to fulfill the certifications' requirements. Theoretical implications: Cooperatives are a relevant player to induce more sustainable practices, by providing or coordinating advisory services, but their efforts cannot be seen disconnected from a broader institutional environment. Originality/Value: We demonstrate that certifications change the intensity and scope of advisory services and induce cooperatives to engage with a more diverse network of stakeholders.

The authors' study reveals leadership opportunities fostered by National Board Certification in the areas of instructional leadership, association leadership, and policy leadership. Discover how this certification program yields these opportunities.

In this study, research was carried out in order to find out whether the certificate system which requires attendants of in-service training is adequate; whether their achievements are sufficiently evaluated in the appointment and ranking processes; whether in-service training is accepted as both a right and a responsibility of the institutions; whether the units responsible for the coordination of in-service training on a national and local level in Turkey are sufficient, and whether human relations are deemed important in in-service training programs as part of views of the Directors of the Agri National Education Directorate, the Principals and Vice Principals of Primary-Secondary Schools in the context of Administration and Supervision. The directors administered a survey which contained information on in-service training in order to determine their level of knowledge on this training in terms of administration and supervision. The sample for the research is composed of 105 directors, 30 of these directors are principals, and the others are vice-principals, from the directors of Agri National Education. According to the findings of the research; it was seen that the directors answered the questions containing information on in-service training with variable rates.

The purpose of this study was to determine the violence tendencies of young people studying in high school in terms of their participation in sports, status of exposure to violence and socio-demographic variables. It was also aimed to evaluate whether the identified violence tendency differed significantly by gender, grade, school success, features of the living place, parental education, economic level, doing sports or not, the ones doing sports regularly working being licensed or not, the number of years spent doing sports being licensed, the status of exposure to violence and the type of the violence exposure. To this end, 459 students in total, studying in 8 high schools randomly chosen within the boundaries of the district of Izmit of the province of Kocaeli in the academic year 2013 to 2014 and participating in the research voluntarily, were included in the scope of the study. As well as a survey determining the socio-demographic attributes, the Violence Tendency Scale developed by Haskan and Yildirim (2012) was administered to high school students. Consequently, it was found out that violence tendencies of young people differed significantly by gender, working in a sports branch being licensed, the number of years spent doing sports being licensed, the status of exposure to violence and the type of the violence exposure.

Background: Negative attitudes toward stuttering and people who stutter (PWS) are found in various groups of people in many regions. However the results of previous studies examining the influence of fluency coursework and clinical certification on the attitudes of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) toward PWS are equivocal. Furthermore, there have been few empirical studies on the attitudes of Korean SLPs toward stuttering. Aims: To determine whether the attitudes of Korean SLPs and speech-language pathology students toward stuttering would be different according to the status of clinical certification, stuttering coursework completion and clinical practicum in stuttering. Methods & Procedures: Survey data from 37 certified Korean SLPs and 70 undergraduate students majoring in speech-language pathology were analysed. All the participants completed the modified Clinician Attitudes Toward Stuttering (CATS) Inventory. Outcomes & Results: Results showed that the diagnosogenic view was still accepted by many participants. Significant differences were found in seven out of 46 CATS Inventory items according to the certification status. In addition significant differences were also found in three items and one item according to stuttering coursework completion and clinical practicum experience in stuttering, respectively. Conclusions & Implications: Clinical and educational experience appears to have mixed influences on SLPs' and students' attitudes toward stuttering. While SLPs and students may demonstrate more appropriate understanding and knowledge in certain areas of stuttering, they may feel difficulty in their clinical experience, possibly resulting in low self-efficacy.

This study presents and analyzes the findings of a 2012 survey of member libraries belonging to the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) about publishers' large journal bundles and compares the results to earlier surveys. The data illuminate five research questions: market penetration, journal bundle construction, collection format shifts, pricing models, and license terms. The structure of the product is still immature, particularly in defining content and developing sustainable pricing models. The typical "bundle" is something less than the full publisher's list. Neither market studies nor market forces have produced a sustainable new strategy for pricing and selling e-journals. Finally, the data reveal a complex history of managing license terms.

Appropriate training and continuing education for mental health professionals are designed to ensure that clinicians provide effective and ethical care. Mental health consumers may depend upon these credentials to judge the level of a professional's competence, but whether these activities and credentials provide a valid indicator of knowledge and skills is subject to debate. The present study was designed to examine preferences for mental health clinicians among potential consumers and factors that may inform these preferences, specifically comparing preferences for doctoral-level mental health clinicians and masters-level clinicians with and without specialty certification for treating anxiety symptoms. Cross-sectional assessment with self-report surveys (clinician preferences, prior mental health diagnosis and treatment, demographic characteristics, generalized anxiety symptoms, mental health literacy, and mental health stigma) was administered in two samples: a college student sample (N = 224; 71.9% female; Mage = 19.1, SD = 1.5) and a sample of adults with chronic pain (N = 116; 74.1% female; Mage = 43.8, SD = 13.8). The present study found that across both samples, therapists with a specialty certification were preferred over those without such credentials within each profession, and that certification status trumped professional standing such that certified masters-level clinicians were rated more highly than noncertified PhD-level clinicians. These findings are indicative of a schism between how the field of clinical psychology conceptualizes itself and how it is seen by its consumers. Implications of our findings for mental health consumers, clinicians, and professional organizations are discussed. Public Significance Statement: This study found evidence that specialty certification status influences consumer preference for mental health providers in the treatment of anxiety. There is no research supporting an association between certification status and functional expertise for the treatment of anxiety disorders; thus, it appears that a "certification" designation holds undeserved yet substantial influence on consumer preference. This finding provides a call for action to address this issue for professional organizations tasked with developing practice guidelines and ethical standards and for the protection of consumers making mental health decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and Objective: To investigate the determinants of missed nursing care and to analyse the mediating effect of holistic nursing competence on the relationship between transition shock and missed nursing care. Background: Transition shock of newly graduated nurses is associated with missed nursing care. Previous studies have shown the determinants of missed nursing care among nurses, but little is known about the relationship between missed nursing care, transition shock and holistic nursing competence. Design: Descriptive and correlational design. Methods: The study was conducted among newly graduated nurses (n = 201) working in acute care hospitals for 1–12 months. The MISSCARE survey, Holistic Nursing Competence Scale and Nursing Transition Shock Scale were used for data collection, in addition to a sociodemographic question form. Data were analysed using Pearson correlation, multiple regression and mediation analyses. The study was reported following the STROBE checklist. Results: The determinants of missed nursing care among newly graduated nurses were sex, unit type, rotating shift work, holding a certificate, holistic nursing competence and transition shock. All these variables explain 35% of the variance in missed nursing care. Holistic nursing competence directly mediated 51.7% of the relationship between transition shock and missed nursing care. Conclusions: Holistic nursing competence may decrease missed nursing care by reducing the effects of transition shock on newly graduated nurses. Relevance to Clinical Practice: The study highlighted that newly graduated nurses are an important population regarding missed nursing care. The determinants of missed care should be considered in the nursing care delivery to prevent missed care by newly graduated nurses. Based on the study findings, some recommendations were made for nurse managers and faculty for the orientation program and undergraduate nursing education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pharmacy board certification provides pharmacists with formal recognition of their careers and their involvement in direct and comprehensive patient care. Credentialing as a board-certified pharmacist demonstrates that the pharmacist has specialized expertise and is able to provide advanced level patient care in a specific pharmacy practice specialty. There is currently not a community pharmacy board certification available in the United States. With the expanding role and clinical expectations of community pharmacists nationwide, perspectives regarding the utility of a community pharmacy specialty board certification are necessary. Methods: A cross-sectional survey with demographic and perception questions (5-point Likert scale) was distributed electronically via Qualtrics. A random sample of pharmacists registered in Rhode Island, Ohio, and Nebraska were selected and surveyed. Results: 53 survey responses were collected. There was a statistically significant difference in board certification history (P =.001) and history of post-graduate training (P <.001) between community pharmacists and non-community pharmacists. Community pharmacists were more likely to simultaneously see community pharmacists as general practitioners (P =.030) and as pharmacy practice specialists (P =.001). Non-community pharmacists were more likely to be familiar with current maintenance requirements for pharmacy board certifications (P <.001) and to feel that a board certification is an appropriate indicator of experience in a pharmacy specialty area (P =.016). Conclusion: Views regarding community pharmacy and board certification differed between community and non-community pharmacists. There was not a statistically significant difference in the perceived value of community pharmacy board certification between community and non-community pharmacist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To determine the predictive validity of Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) Exit Exam scores for student first-time success on the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam and to analyze whether schools' policies on the HESI Exit Exam are associated with end-of-program student success. Methods Twenty-five radiography program directors provided retrospective data on ARRT certification exam student outcomes, and 24 program directors completed the HESI Exit Exam program policy survey. Data analysis was performed to examine the correlation between students' HESI Exit Exam scores and their first-time ARRT certification exam outcomes and to investigate the relationship between program policies and performance on both exams. Results First-time ARRT certification exam outcomes were obtained for 1265 program graduates who took the HESI Exit Exam from 2018 through 2021. Students achieving acceptable (700-749) and recommended (750-799) HESI Exit Exam scores exhibited significantly higher certification exam pass rates of 79.4% and 86.4%, respectively. ARRT certification exam pass rates were higher for those scoring 800 or above (94.5-100%). Implementation of a minimum HESI Exit Exam score requirements and a required exam preparation were significantly associated with more favorable ARRT certification exam outcomes. Discussion There was a significant positive relationship between higher HESI Exit Exam scores and more successful outcomes on the ARRT certification exam. Two program policies regarding use of the HESI Exit Exam (minimum exit exam score required, required test prep) emerged as best-practice approaches for ARRT certification exam success. Conclusion The HESI Exit Exam was predictive of success on the ARRT certification exam. The results presented in this study can be used to improve radiography education. Future research on how additional educational resources affect HESI Exit Exam and ARRT certification exam success is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate the distribution of nurse practitioners (NPs) across Japan and their perceived facilitators and barriers to NP implementation in Japan. Background: NP certification examinations have been conducted in Japan since 2011, and by 2020, there were 487 NPs in the country. The momentum of NP implementation is slower in Japan compared with other countries. Methods: A cross‐sectional descriptive study, following the STROBE guidelines, was conducted. Web‐based survey questionnaires, developed by the authors, were administered to 248 NPs whose email addresses were maintained by the certification management body. Results: Valid responses were obtained from 101 NPs (response rate: 40.7%), of which 34% were male. The respondents had more than 12 years of registered nurse experience on an average before enrolling in the graduate NP program. 53% were employed as NPs from the beginning, while 25% were initially employed as registered nurses and later advanced to NPs, and 11% still worked as RNs. A majority worked in hospitals with beds. Many NPs perceived the lack of NP national licensure and reimbursement benefits as barriers to NP implementation, whereas recognition from superiors and organizations was considered facilitators. Conclusions: Despite their small numbers in Japan, NPs take on crucial tasks and contribute to the appropriate distribution of medical resources. The NP licensure system and recognition from superiors and organizations may be necessary to promote NP roles in Japan. Implications for nursing and health policy: Some certified NPs still work as registered nurses. Recognition from nursing and organization administrators is critical to implementing NPs. To this end, a reimbursement system benefiting the organizations and a legislation facilitating NP employment are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Entrustable professional activities (EPAs) will be used for initial certification by the American Board of Pediatrics by 2028. Less than half of pediatric fellowships currently use EPAs for assessment, yet all will need to adopt them. Our objectives were to identify facilitators and barriers to the implementation of EPAs to assess pediatric fellows and to determine fellowship program directors' (FPD) perceptions of EPAs and Milestones. METHODS: We conducted a survey of FPDs from 15 pediatric subspecialties. EPA users were asked about their implementation of EPAs, barriers encountered, and perceptions of EPAs. Nonusers were queried about deterrents to using EPAs. Both groups were asked about potential facilitators of implementation and their perceptions of Milestones. RESULTS: The response ratewas 65% (575/883). Of these, 344 (59.8%)were EPA users and 231 (40.2%)were nonusers. Both groups indicatedwork burden as a barrier to implementation. Nonusers reportedmore barriers than users (mean [SD]: 7 [3.8] vs 5.8 [3.4], P< .001). Both groups identified training materials and premade assessment forms as facilitators to implementation. Users felt that EPAs were easier to understand than Milestones (89%) and better reflected what it meant to be a practicing subspecialty physician (90%). In contrast, nonusers felt thatMilestoneswere easy to understand (57%) and reflectedwhat itmeant to be a practicing subspecialist (58%). CONCLUSIONS: Implementing EPA-based assessment will require a substantial investment by FPDs, facilitated by guidance and easily accessible resources provided by multiple organizations. Perceived barriers to be addressed include FPD time constraints, a need for additional assessment tools, and outcomes data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Aims The European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI) Scientific Initiatives Committee performed a global survey on radiation exposure in interventional echocardiography. The survey aimed to collect data on local practices for radioprotection in interventional echocardiography and to assess the awareness of echocardiography operators about radiation-related risks. Methods and results A total of 258 interventional echocardiographers from 52 different countries (48% European) responded to the survey. One hundred twenty-two (47%) participants were women. Two-thirds (76%) of interventional echocardiographers worked in tertiary care/university hospitals. Interventional echocardiography was the main clinical activity for 34% of the survey participants. The median time spent in the cath-lab for the echocardiographic monitoring of structural heart procedures was 10 (5–20) hours/month. Despite this, only 28% of interventional echocardiographers received periodic training and certification in radioprotection and 72% of them did not know their annual radiation dose. The main adopted personal protection devices were lead aprons and thyroid collars (95% and 92% of use, respectively). Dedicated architectural protective shielding was not available for 33% of interventional echocardiographers. Nearly two-thirds of responders thought that the radiation exposure of interventional echocardiographers was higher than that of interventional cardiologists and 72% claimed for an improvement in the radioprotection measures. Conclusion Radioprotection measures for interventional echocardiographers are widely variable across centres. Radioprotection devices are often underused by interventional echocardiographers, portending an increased radiation-related risk. International scientific societies working in the field should collaborate to endorse radioprotection training, promote reliable radiation dose assessment, and support the adoption of radioprotection shielding dedicated to interventional echocardiographers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nurse leaders play a critical part in supporting the safety of patients and their staff. Their guidance in establishing a robust safety culture and engagement in preparing their organizations for the survey is important in eliminating patient harm. Ensuring the dialysis facility and staff are survey- ready promotes a culture dedicated to patient wellbeing and safety. This article describes the survey process in dialysis facilities and provides survey tips to guide nurse managers in being survey-ready every day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify training gaps and continuing education (CE) needs for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in evaluating and treating children with cleft palate across and among areas of varying population density. Method: An anonymous 35-question survey lasting approximately 10-15 min was created in Qualtrics based on a previously published study. The survey information and link were electronically distributed to American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)-certified SLPs through ASHA listservs, social media, individual-state SLP organizations, and an e-mail list of publicly listed SLPs. A total of 359 survey responses were collected. Results: Respondents varied in terms of age, type of certification, practice location, and clinical experience with cleft palate, with the largest percentage (46.7%) of respondents in a school-based setting. Only 28.5% reported currently feeling comfortable treating children with cleft palate. Respondents reported conventions/conferences (25.4%) and webinars (23.2%) were the most helpful resources, but DVDs were frequently not used for CE. Information from the child's cleft team (84.4%) and mentors/colleagues (70%) were considered high-quality resources. Respondents indicated information on treatment of articulation (79.2%) and resonance (78.4%) disorders as well as specific therapy techniques (76.9%) would be very helpful for clinical practice. Population density significantly influenced how respondents ranked the perceived helpfulness and quality of different resources as well as desired topics for future resources. Conclusions: There is a continued need for adequate training and CE opportunities for SLPs, particularly related to assessing and treating children with cleft palate. Increased access to high-quality CE resources will be key to filling educational gaps present for SLPs, especially in areas of low-population density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Literature on occupational risks among organic farmers is scarce. This study explored safety practices and non-fatal injuries among organic producers, and the role of sociodemographic, work, and farm characteristics on safety and injury. Cross sectional survey of certified organic crop producers in the Southwest (SW) region of the United States (US). The Organic Integrity Database was used for recruitment. Data were collected through an electronic and paper survey. Analyses were conducted on 115 cases; response rate was estimated at 25%. A high majority of respondents owned their operation and were younger than 65 years, male, educated beyond high-school, and non-Hispanic whites. Less than half had more than 10 years of experience in organic farming; one-third worked off the farm year-round. Safety practices were very basic despite the widespread use of equipment and machinery, and limited to wearing normal clothing and apparel such hats and glasses. About half of respondents (52.6%) reported non-fatal injuries in the past year; and one-third (32.7%) time lost due to injuries. The overall cumulative incidence rate was estimated at 5.3 injuries per 10 workers within the last year. The injury rate decreased with hours worked. Significant differences were found on gender and education level and safety practices, with female respondents and the more educated being more proactive in practicing safety. Those working less than 40 h/week, in farms smaller than 50 acres, using light machinery or compact utility tractors, and tractors without roll-over protection reported significantly higher injury frequency compared to their counterparts. This study contributes unique data on an essential workforce not captured by current occupational injury and illness surveillance systems. It identifies important personal and contextual factors that may contribute to safety and injury in this population. The findings indicate the need to promote safety and prevent injuries that result in work time lost. This study may also inform future occupational safety and health research and practice, including surveillance, injury prevention programs that target certain workers and production practices, and policies that support and protect the organic farmer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim This study sought tomeasure nursing faculty's perceptions regarding the value of obtaining the CNE®/ CNE®n specialty certification. There is limited research surrounding efforts to improve perceived extrinsic and intrinsic values of certification and even less documentation on identifying a link between student learning outcomes and instruction by CNE®/CNE®n faculty. Methods Participants were recruited from a private college located in X, where only 16% of the 58 full and part-time academic nurse educators possess the Certified Nurse Educator® (CNE®)/Certified Nurse Educator® Novice (CNE®n) specialty certification.An online PVCT-12 survey was conducted pre- and post-CNE preparatory course to investigate changes in extrinsic and intrinsic perceived values of obtaining certification. Participants were also surveyed post-prep course to determine intent and timeframe for testing. Results: The study increasedthe number of full and part time academic nurse faculty with theCNE[sup ®]/ CNE®ncertification from 16% to 24%. There was also anincrease in the perceived value of the certification, more notably in the extrinsic value category. Conclusion: Understanding these perceptions and motivators for certification can guideinstitutions in supporting faculty to increase their credentialed nurse educators. This study should be repeated with a larger population of nursing faculty across multiple academic institutions to produce more generalizable results. Future research should focus on identifying a link between improved student learning outcomes and instruction by CNE®/CNE®n faculty to further increase the extrinsic value of certification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study was designed to describe the landscape of oncology pharmacy practice at patient facing institutional healthcare organizations throughout the United States. Methods: The Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Practice Outcomes and Professional Benchmarking Committee conducted a multi-organization, voluntary survey of HOPA members between March 2021 and January 2022. Four overarching domains were targeted: institutional description, job function, staffing, and training/certification. Data were evaluated using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 68 responses were analyzed including 59% and 41% who self-identified their organization as academic and community centers, respectively. The median number of infusion chairs and annual infusion visits were 49 (interquartile range (IQR): 32–92) and 23,500 (IQR: 8300–300,000), respectively. Pharmacy departments reported to a business leader, physician leader, and nursing leader 57%, 24%, and 10% of the time, respectively. The median oncology pharmacy full-time equivalents was 16 (IQR: 5–60). At academic centers, 50% (IQR: 26–60) of inpatient and 30% (IQR: 21–38) of ambulatory pharmacist FTEs were dedicated to clinical activities. At community centers, 45% (IQR: 26–65) of inpatient and 50% (IQR: 42–58) of ambulatory pharmacist FTEs were dedicated to clinical activities. As many as 18% and 65% of organizations required or encouraged certification for oncology pharmacists, respectively. The median number of Board-Certified Oncology Pharmacists was 4 (IQR: 2–15). Conclusion: As the number of patients with cancer rises, the oncology workforce must grow to support this expanding population. These results describe the practice landscape of oncology pharmacy at US healthcare institutions to serve as a foundation for future research evaluating metrics and benchmarks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Agriculture entered the discussions about safety climates late, despite being one of the most hazardous industries. We recently developed a safety climate scale in Bordeaux vineyards, for which we provided good evidence of reliability and construct validity (Grimbuhler and Viel 2019). In this study, we aimed to establish the external validity of this safety climate scale with the help of an independent national sample of vineyard professionals. Population and methods We approached vineyard managers and operators during compulsory training and certification procedures for pesticide-related activities. Trainees giving informed consent for participation in the study were asked to complete a safety climate questionnaire at the start and end of a training session. In total, 406 vineyard managers or operators completed the questionnaire at the start of the study, 37 of whom declined to complete the questionnaire at the end of the training session, leaving 369 subjects available for pretraining/post-training comparisons. Statistical comparisons were based on t -tests and mixed models for repeated measures. Results A mean safety climate score of 82.91 (SD: 9.06) was obtained in the initial survey in the Bordeaux region, whereas the safety climate score was estimated at 83.78 (SD 10.39) in this nationwide survey (P = 0.23). A significant increase was observed after the training course, for the safety climate score (7.5%, P < 10–15) and for each of its 7 dimensions (P < 10–4 or less), in both univariate and multivariate analyses. However, the magnitude of these increases varied with dimension, ranging from 2.4% for rules and best practices to 15.5% for communication and feedback. Conclusions External validity was demonstrated by transferability and sensitivity to intervention. This safety climate scale can now be considered to provide a good inference of the safety culture, with a meaning generalizable across vineyards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the feasibility of group interventions using the Direct Skills Teaching (DST) approach to teach interview preparedness skills ("Presenting Qualifications") and basic work-related conversational skills ("Conversing with Others") to individuals with psychiatric disabilities. This quasi-experimental pilot study included 87 participants in Study 1 and 55 participants in Study 2, all with various psychiatric diagnoses. Each group intervention consisted of four sessions delivered by graduate counseling students. Participants reported increased confidence in presenting qualifications at interviews in Study 1 and in conversational skills at work in Study 2. Participants in both studies reported high levels of satisfaction with the respective group intervention. The results of the study supported the feasibility of DST group interventions designed to teach work-related skills to individuals with psychiatric disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. Introduction: The Baylor International Pediatric AIDS Initiative (BIPAI) Network supports a network of independent nongovernmental organizations providing health care for children and families in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Using a community of practice (CoP) framework, a continuing professional development (CPD) program was created for health professionals to enhance knowledge and exchange best practices. Methods: An online learning platform (Moodle), videoconferencing (Zoom), instant messaging systems (Whatsapp), and email listserv facilitated learning and interaction between program participants. Target participants initially included pharmacy staff and expanded to include other health professionals. Learning modules included asynchronous assignments and review of materials, live discussion sessions, and module pretests and posttests. Evaluation included participants' activities, changes in knowledge, and assignment completion. Participants provided feedback on program quality via surveys and interviews. Results: Five of 11 participants in Year 1 earned a certificate of completion, and 17 of 45 participants earned a certificate in Year 2. Most modules showed an increase in module pretest and posttest scores. Ninety-seven percent of participants indicated that the relevance and usefulness of modules were good or outstanding. Ongoing evaluation indicated changes in Year 2 for program improvement, and notable outcomes indicated how CoP added value in developing a true community. Discussion: Using a CoP framework allowed participants to improve their personal knowledge and become part of a learning community and network of interdisciplinary health care professionals. Lessons learned included expanding program evaluation to capture potential value creation of the community of practice in addition to individual-level development; providing briefer, more focused programs to better serve busy working professionals; and optimizing use of technological platforms to improve participant engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess physician attitudes on the status, value, and future of board certification in lifestyle medicine (LM). Study design: Cross-sectional survey of physician members of the American College of LM. Methods: A 49-item, web-based survey with a 5-point Likert response scale. Results: The 351 respondents did not differ significantly from the eligible sample of 6334 members regarding gender (68% female), country of residence (88% U.S), or census region, but did include more ABLM diplomates (63% vs 22%). Certification by ABLM was considered a source of personal pride (95% agree or strongly agree) that could help in marketing clinical services (85%) and potentially increase job opportunities (60%). Certification by ABLM is sufficient for certification needs (67%), but there was interest (65%) in LM becoming a member board of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) as an aspirational goal (48%). Few respondents (22%) practiced intensive therapeutic lifestyle change (ITLC) even though most (57%) considered it an essential aspect of LM. There was agreement (94%) that LM is essential to mainstream medicine. Conclusion: Survey respondents, regardless of certification status, agreed that becoming an ABLM diplomate both meets their certifying needs and offers substantial benefits, with the caveat that ABMS recognition is an aspirational goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the COVID-19 pandemic's many strains on the United States (US) healthcare system has been its impact on the physician board certification process. Understanding this effect is critical to maintaining access to qualified medical care and upholding the benchmark of board certification. The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) has shown that US annual first-time physician certifications fell from a total of 31696 physicians in 2019 to 23558 in 2020. A survey sent to all 22 primary specialty boards under the ABMS received received responses from 7 boards. Results suggest that 5426 of 11722 (46.3%) applicants to responding specialty boards had testing canceled or rescheduled because of COVID-19. One board reported 4147 (80.5%) of its applicants were affected, requiring 2.9 times the original number of exam dates. Four specialty boards chose to newly incorporate a virtual format, with 2274 (19.4%) of all candidates taking part in the novel format. While COVID-19 altered board examinations for many physicians in 2020, successes and failures in implementing new certification modalities may hint at future opportunities to maintain and improve the certification process for US physicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The strategic nursing plan for a large Midwestern health care system includes achievement of the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Magnet® recognition for all their hospitals. This study explored the barriers to and perceived value of certification among nurses employed by the same health care system across eight facilities in a metropolitan region. One of these facilities holds Magnet® recognition. Method: Subjects were recruited by direct email to collect demographic data and complete a barrier to certification survey and the Perceived Value of Certification Tool-12. Results: There were statistically significant differences in the perception that lack of institutional support is a barrier to certification both in aggregate and when comparing the Magnet® hospital with the others. Conclusion: As an initial exploration into barriers and perceived value, this study provides data for this health care system to plan strategies to promote certification. This study also serves as an exemplar for other organizations considering evaluation of certification barriers and value among their nursing staff. [J Contin Educ Nurs. 2023;54(12):567–573.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whereas the importance of information system (IS) certifications is increasing to prove compliance with regulatory and industry requirements, research reveals inconsistent findings concerning the effectiveness of IS certifications. Prior studies have concluded that such inconsistent findings stem partly from users' limited understanding of the nature and role of certifications due to ineffective certification presentations. We follow a three-phase, theory-driven design science approach to examine how to design effective certification presentations. First, we identified sources of users' limited understanding and formulated a revised certification presentation that facilitates users' peripheral information processing. We tested our design proposal in an online experiment with 300 participants. Second, we derived meta-requirements and design guidelines by validating a theory-driven model of certification presentations through an online survey with 352 participants. Third, we implemented three certification presentations complying with example guidelines and ran an online experiment with 400 participants to test whether these presentations are effective. We contribute to research and practice by proposing a design theory for certification presentations composed of peripheral cues inducing authority, social proof and likeability to increase users' trust perceptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To document the current approaches to care coordination among different types of care systems in Minnesota. STUDY DESIGN: Observational survey of leaders of most of the care systems in Minnesota that have implemented care coordination. METHODS: Survey questions about organizational structure, size, and approach to care coordination were sent to the leaders of 42 care systems with a total of 327 primary care clinics. RESULTS: Surveys were completed by leaders at every care system participating in this study (100% response rate); 16 small care systems (each with 1-2 clinics) had a total of 26 primary care clinics, 15 medium care systems (3-9 clinics) had 57 clinics, and 11 large care systems (> 9 clinics) had 244 clinics. The large care systems had larger clinics (clinicians per clinic, 8.6 in large vs 4.3 in small and 5.2 in medium; P = .03) and more clinicians per care coordinator (5.7 vs 3.3 and 4.0; P = .04). They also more frequently included a social worker in their care coordination team: 82% vs 25% of small and 40% of medium care systems (P = .01). However, the services provided and complexity tools used were similar. Nearly all reported addressing both medical and social needs for their complex patients with multiple chronic conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Although there are large differences in resources and capabilities between large and small care systems, they were not associated with much difference in the approach taken to care coordination. This map of the care coordination territory in Minnesota has the potential to be valuable to researchers and care system leaders for understanding current implementation trends and directing further evaluations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD) conducted a practice analysis to guide the development of its certification examination outlines for assessing the knowledge, skills, and abilities of pediatric dentists. This article describes the systematic approach used by the ABPD. The ABPD conducted its practice analysis in 4 phases: (1) preparation, (2) focus group meetings, (3) survey, and (4) examination blueprint development. Phase 2 resulted in 150 job tasks relevant to entry-level pediatric dental practice, organized into 10 domains. In Phase 3, 8,730 pediatric dentists received an electronic survey, with 10% returning a completed survey. Respondents rated tasks in terms of frequency and risk, which were analyzed to determine the combined relevance of each task. Phase 4 organized a final list of tasks within each domain and the recommended weighting of domains by certifying examination. The ABPD practice analysis created a comprehensive outline of the job tasks an entry-level pediatric dentist is expected to perform. The ABPD plans to use the results to help develop the examination content for continuing certification and will use a similar process every 5 through 7 years to update the examination content blueprints to ensure their continued relevance to the practice of pediatric dentistry. The ABPD used a process known as practice analysis to ensure that its examinations and continued competency assessments measure the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for safe and effective clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Violence against women is a pervasive issue that social workers often encounter in their practice settings. Preparing social workers to work with survivors of violence is essential, but currently, standardized, guidelines to support this process are lacking. The purpose of this study was to develop these competencies through a collaborative process with social work educators and practitioners from across the country. To achieve this goal, a total of 115 researchers and practitioners completed an online survey providing feedback on potential competencies. Using this feedback, competencies were revised and then collapsed using qualitative procedures. As a next phase, the authors will use these competencies to evaluate their master's level social work certificate program in violence against women and children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study aimed to assess neonatologists' experience and comfort with neonatal electrical cardioversion or defibrillation (EC-D). Study Design Electronic surveys were distributed to academic neonatologists affiliated with 12 Midwest academic hospitals. Neonatologists were asked about their residency training; years since completing residency; current certification/competency training in the Basic Life Support (BLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), and Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP); experiences with EC-D; availability of a pediatric cardiologist; and their comfort levels with such procedures. Standard statistical tests evaluated comfort with EC-D. Results Seventy-two out of 180 neonatologists responded to the survey (response rate = 40%). Of them, 98.6% (71), 54.2% (39), and 37.5% (27) maintained current NRP, BLS, and PALS trainings, respectively. Also, 73.6% (n = 53) reported having performed neonatal EC-D. Of those, 50.9% (n = 27) indicated feeling slightly to very uncomfortable performing EC-D. We report a lack of BLS certification being associated with a lack of comfort (odds ratio [OR]: 0.269, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [0.071, 0.936]), and a positive association between a pediatric cardiologist being present and being uncomfortable (OR: 3.722, 95% CI: [1.069, 14.059]). Those reporting greater volume and more recent experience with EC-D report more comfort. Conclusion Of neonatologists who performed EC-D, half of them reported being uncomfortable. BLS certification and experience are positively associated with comfort in performing EC-D. Simulations to increase training in EC-D should be offered regularly to academic neonatologists. Key Points Most neonatologists have performed EC-D, but many feel uncomfortable with performing EC-D. Many do not maintain current certification in BLS, PALS, or ACLS. Simulation training in EC-D will increase comfort with EC-D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Antipsychotic medications (APMs) have been used to treat multiple psychiatric disorders for decades. The conditions to use these medications have expanded from primarily psychotic disorders to Food and Drug Administration--approved uses as first-line mood stabilizers in bipolar disorder and adjunctive pharmacotherapy in unipolar depression. Antipsychotic medications can have serious side effects, including drug-induced movement disorders (DIMDs). Nurse practitioners (NPs) in non--psychiatric-mental health specialties are increasingly managing psychotropic medication regimes. There is a void in peer-reviewed literature capturing the scope of NPs managing APMs, such as whether they received training to prescribe and manage risks of APM, and if so, what type (e.g., continuing education, attending conferences, consulting), and their confidence assessing and managing DIMDs. Purpose: To describe the scope of NP management, knowledge, and confidence related to APMs and associated risks of DIMDs. Methodology: Nonexperimental, descriptive, cross-sectional survey. Participants (n = 400) recruited through a professional association membership portal. Results: Nearly two-thirds of participants reported managing APMs (64%) and receiving training to prescribe and manage risks of APMs (63%). More than half (54%) reported they received training to do so in their NP education program. Thirty-five percent of participants indicated they were either completely (6%) or fairly (29%) confident, whereas most (65%) endorsed being somewhat (26%), slightly (20%), or not (19%) confident in assessing and managing DIMDs. Conclusions/Implications: Opportunities exist to broaden NP education in managing APMs and associated risks of DIMDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assistive technology (AT) has received much attention for its capacity to improve quality of life for individuals with disabilities. While AT can be promising, the high AT abandonment issue persists. Rehabilitation counsellors are considered important in solving such an issue. However, how to effectively prepare rehabilitation counsellors to provide AT services remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the field experience of rehabilitation counsellors and identify the most relevant AT knowledge and skills to the profession. A survey that explores rehabilitation counsellors perceived AT importance and competence was used. A total of 237 rehabilitation counsellors in the United States were recruited via the email listserv provided by Commission on Rehabilitation Counsellor Certification. The results indicated that while rehabilitation counsellors considered AT important to them, they felt ill-prepared in providing such services. Of the three subscales, the ability to use AT was rated with the highest importance and the knowledge of AT was rated with the lowest competence. Although it is impossible for rehabilitation counsellors to know every aspect of the AT services, five training areas were identified to be a priority. Specifically, these five areas include training to improve rehabilitation counsellors' (a) awareness of AT benefit, (b) knowledge and skill of AT assessment, (c) knowledge of computer based AT and the use of social media, (d) skill in using AT to increase service accessibility, and (e) ability to assist clients decision making that addresses both physical and psychological needs. •Confirm the importance of AT in rehabilitation counselling practices. •Recognise the limited AT competence amongst rehabilitation counsellors. •Identify five areas for more AT training that improve rehabilitation counsellors' •Awareness of AT benefit, •Knowledge and skill of AT assessment, •Knowledge of computer based AT and the use of social media, •Skill in using AT to increase service accessibility, and •Ability to assist clients decision making that addresses both physical and psychological needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this project was to determine if the implementation of a three-tiered model consisting of a full board review course, round table case analysis, and on call scenarios in the final clinical course of the Family Nurse Practitioner Doctor of Nursing Practice program improved readiness for board certification testing for graduating students. Methods: An anonymous pre- and post-survey design was utilized. Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval was obtained prior to implementation. A full board review course, including a predictor exit exam component, was utilized in this cohort's final clinical course. Additionally, in-class case review and "on-call" scenarios were facilitated by the faculty to simulate critical decision-making scenarios. A 58% survey response rate was elicited. Prior to the full board review, 16% of respondents felt ready to answer general board-style questions as compared to 100% following the review. Thirty three percent of respondents felt ready to prescribe and provide evidence-based care prior to the project, following the project, 100% of respondents felt ready. Open-ended questions revealed positive feedback for the course and simulated scenarios, however students did feel overwhelmed by the amount of work the course entailed over the course the semester. Conclusions: Quantitative and Qualitative results indicated positive outcomes and provide support for adoption of the full board review, case-based simulation, and on-call scenarios for all practicum courses at the university. Adjustment of the time requirement and expectations should be reviewed prior to further implementation. In addition, limitations included a small cohort of students in this study; additional studies should be implemented before generalization can occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]