Advanced Technology Transfer of Gerontological Training--Linkage Final Report Volume 1

Abstract

This project was designed to demonstrate how centrally based advanced telecommunications can be used to efficiently and economically train older Alaskans Commission project staffs (or other personnel) located in remote communities. This project used Alaska's Satellite Communications System to provide training to eight remote communities in Alaska from a central training station in Anchorage. Researchers used three training modes: (1) audioconferencing (via telephone), (2) audioconferencing with a videotape and workbook, and (3) televised audioconferencing. A total of fifty-six people participated in the demonstration, with an average of twenty-four attending each session. The project demonstrated that:

1. Training can effectively be delivered to remote sites through a variety of techniques.

2. The most effective techniques seem to be: (1) interactive televised audioconferencing; (2) an audioconference which has been prepared for the training through the use of an educational videotape and a workbook which can be used to guide the training; or (3) some combination of the two. Number 2, however, would be most economical.

3. The Remote training resulted in a noticeable change in the participants' knowledge of and attitudes about the training topics (for example, the problems of Alzheimer's Disease and the needs of the frail elderly in their communities) .

4. Training and other dissemination of information by remote means can be performed quite economically-- much more cheaply than by transporting trainees to a central location.

Although no single program can solve all the needs of Alaska's rural elderly population, we believe that this demonstration project has taken an important first step in showing how advanced communications can be used to provide cost-effective training to Older Alaskan Commission Staffs, and others, located in remote, isolated communities.